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Naofu Grand Festival

Guide

Naofu Grand Festival

8 min read

Event Overview

The Naofu Grand Festival is a traditional summer celebration held annually on July 31 and August 1 in Naofu-machi, Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture. The most iconic feature of this festival is the 'Kaijo Togyo' (Sea Procession), where a portable shrine (mikoshi) is carried by boat toward a sacred torii gate standing in the ocean. The festival also features the powerful performance of Gojinjyo Taiko, a designated intangible folk cultural property of Ishikawa Prefecture. This event offers a profound glimpse into the spirit and history of the Noto Peninsula.

Highlights and How to Enjoy

The absolute highlight of the festival is the ritual movement of the mikoshi toward the sea torii gate. During the main festival on the second day, the sight of the shrine being escorted by boat through the waves to the floating torii is truly awe-inspiring.

Another must-see is the Gojinjyo Taiko performance, a tradition passed down through generations in Naofu. Based on a legend from 1577 where performers wore mysterious masks to deceive enemies during battle, the drumming is characterized by intense, powerful rhythms and performers wearing striking, unique masks. The combination of the heavy drumbeats and the dramatic atmosphere creates an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

Schedule

The festival takes place over two days: July 31 and August 1.

  • *Around 21:00**: The Kiriko (lantern floats) depart from their stations to begin the festivities.
  • *Around 21:30**: The Kiriko floats gather at Hakusan Shrine.
  • *22:00**: The mikoshi and Kiriko floats begin their procession.
  • *22:30**: The mikoshi is carried by boat to the torii gate in the sea for the maritime ritual. Once the mikoshi returns to land, the Gojinjyo Taiko performance begins.
  • *24:00**: The mikoshi enters the Okariya, followed by the energetic dance of the Kiriko floats. The festivities conclude as the floats return to their bases.
  • *14:00**: The main festival begins at the Okariya, led by Gojinjyo Taiko performers on floats.
  • *Around 14:40**: After arriving at the Hakusan Shrine plaza, the ritual of sending the mikoshi out to the sea torii gate is performed.
  • *15:00**: A Gojinjyo Taiko performance is held on the stage below Hakusan Shrine.
  • *15:30**: The mikoshi arrives at Hakusan Shrine, marking the conclusion of the grand festival.

Venue and Access

The festival is held around the Naofu-machi area (Hakusan Shrine and Naofu Coast) in Wajima, Ishikawa.

  • Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes from Kanazawa via the Noto Satoyama Kaido.
  • Approximately 30 minutes from the Noto-Mitsui IC via Route 249.
  • Take the Wajima Express Bus from Kanazawa Station (approx. 2.5 hours) to 'Wajima Ekimae' stop.
  • Transfer to a local bus (Mano Line) and get off at the 'Naofu' stop.

Tips for Visitors

You can enjoy the main sea procession and the Gojinjyo Taiko performances from the coastline or the shrine plaza. The Eve Festival (July 31) offers a particularly magical atmosphere as the glowing lanterns and Kiriko floats illuminate the night sea. Understanding the historical context of the masks and the sea ritual will deepen your appreciation of the event.

What to Bring and Etiquette

As the event takes place along the coast and near the shrine, please wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. If attending the night events, be prepared for temperature drops and uneven terrain.

  • *Payment**: Please bring cash for food stalls and local vendors.
  • *Reservations**: No advanced reservation is required, but please check the official website for any schedule changes.