Guide
Located at Ube Jinja in Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture, the Miyuki-sai is one of the region's most significant annual festivals. Ube Jinja is widely revered for bringing prosperity to businesses and good fortune. Every April, the shrine hosts the annual grand festival, featuring the breathtaking 'Kirin Shishi-mai' (Kirin Lion Dance) with a 350-year history. This unique lion dance, characterized by its single horn, is designated as a Tottori Prefectural Intangible Folk Cultural Property and represents the solemn traditions of the Inaba region.
The true highlight of this festival is its sheer energy and scale. One of the most spectacular moments is when the massive portable shrines (mikoshi) are carried up and down the stone steps, creating a powerful spectacle. Visitors can also enjoy the 'Yako-no-mai' dance, which recreates the historical processions of the Tottori domain, and a majestic warrior procession featuring participants in traditional armor. The elegance of the Miko (shrine maidens) in their vibrant red and white attire adds a beautiful, graceful touch to the festivities. It is a perfect blend of the serene, spiritual movements of the Kirin dance and the high-energy excitement of the shrine processions.
The festival takes place annually in April. Please note that specific dates may vary slightly each year:
Accessing Ube Jinja Shrine is straightforward:
We recommend wearing comfortable clothing as you will be walking around the shrine grounds. The atmosphere becomes very lively and crowded when the portable shrines pass through, so please stay aware of your surroundings. As these are sacred rituals, please observe local customs and maintain a respectful attitude while observing the ceremonies.
Since the event is held outdoors, please prepare for changing weather conditions. We recommend checking the official website for the latest information regarding any specific requirements or local guidelines.