Onomichi Beccya Matsuri Festival

Event Overview

The Onomichi Beccya Matsuri is a vibrant traditional autumn festival held throughout the streets of Onomichi, Hiroshima. This three-day celebration is packed with local energy, featuring portable shrines (mikoshi) and spirited lion dances. The highlight is the 'eccentric' ritual where masked lions known as 'Beta,' 'Shoki,' and 'Soba' chase people through the streets and playfully strike them with sticks. This ritual is believed to bring good health and protection for the coming year. It is a truly high-energy spectacle that showcases the deep-rooted traditions of the region.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The most thrilling part of this festival is watching the masked lions parade through the town. The sight of the lions chasing the crowds is an energetic and intense experience that you won't find at many other festivals. You can also enjoy the grand procession of highly decorated portable shrines, the formal ceremonies at Ichinomiya Shrine, and the lively rituals that continue late into the evening. It is a perfect way to experience the fusion of traditional Japanese culture and the historic, scenic streets of Onomichi.

Schedule

The festival takes place over three days. The general schedule is as follows:

• *Day 1**: The festivities begin with the powerful procession of mikoshi through Onomichi, passing through Honmachi Center-gai, Kaigan-dori, and Kubo Shinkai toward Otabasho. The procession is expected to arrive around 21:30.
• *Day 2**: The grand ceremony is held at the Ichinomiya Shrine grounds. The evening is filled with excitement, including a lucky draw, the 'Urashu no Mai' dance-off, and the energetic 'Beccya Taiko' drum performances.
• *Day 3**: A massive parade takes place throughout the day. In the morning, the procession moves from Honmachi Shopping Street through Kurimoto-dori and past Suwa Inari Shrine. In the afternoon, it passes through Honmachi Center-gai, Kaigan-dori, and Nagae-dori, culminating in a spectacular performance of mikoshi and drums at the shrine steps.

Venue & Access

The festival takes place throughout the central areas of Onomichi (including Ichinomiya Shrine, Suwa Inari Shrine, Honmachi Center-gai, and Kaigan-dori).

• *Ichinomiya Shrine (Kibitsuhiko Shrine)**: Approximately a 10-minute walk from Onomichi Station.
• *Suwa Inari Shrine (Shimanami Koryukan Plaza)**: Very close to Onomichi Station (walking distance).

Tips for Visitors

The atmosphere becomes incredibly lively and crowded when the lions begin chasing people. Please stay aware of your surroundings to enjoy the spectacle safely. You can feel the intense energy of the festival at various points along the shrine and lion parade routes.

What to Bring & Etiquette

As this is an outdoor event involving significant movement, we recommend wearing comfortable, casual clothing and walking-friendly shoes. Please check the official website for any specific updates regarding the event schedule or rules on the day of the festival.