Oyamahirai Grand Festival

Event Overview

The Oyamahirira Grand Festival (also known as the Summer Mountain Opening) is a vital ritual at Mt. Ishizuchi. It marks the sacred journey of the deities from the base of the mountain toward the summit. Starting with the departure ceremony at the main shrine on June 30, the deities visit various shrines across Mt. Ishizuchi through July 10. During this period, the mountain becomes a place of intense spiritual energy, drawing tens of thousands of pilgrims. The air is filled with the resonant sounds of bells and conch shells as people dressed in traditional white garments traverse the mountain paths.

Highlights & What to Expect

The most breathtaking sight is the movement of the deities themselves. On the morning of July 1, you can witness the sacred statues being carried from Jojusha Shrine toward the summit shrine, enveloping the entire mountain in a divine atmosphere. While Mt. Ishizuchi has historically been a restricted area for women, a special exception is made on July 1, when women are permitted to climb. You will also experience the unique culture of mountain greetings, where climbers call out "O-nobori-san" (those ascending) and "O-kudari-san" (those descending) to one another. At Jojusha Shrine, special events like the ceremonial throwing of rice cakes (Mochi-maki) and evening rituals are also held.

Schedule

The festival consists of various rituals held over several days. Please note the following key dates:

• *June 30**: 7:30 AM Departure from Honsha Shrine; 3:30 PM Arrival at Jojusha Shrine
• *July 1**: 6:30 AM Departure from Jojusha Shrine; 7:00 AM Procession toward Summit Shrine (every 15 mins); 10:00 AM Arrival at Summit Shrine & Opening Day Ceremony
• *July 2–9**: Women's climbing period begins (from Jojusha and Tsuchigoya Yorai-den); Dogo Onsen Spring Offering Ceremony
• *July 5**: 10:00 AM Mid-festival Ceremony (including Mochi-maki at Jojusha)
• *July 7**: Around 6:30 PM Gagaku (court music) and Miko (shrine maiden) dance performance at Jojusha
• *July 10**: 10:00 AM Closing Ceremony (4 shrines); 11:30 AM Departure from Summit Shrine; 12:00 PM Departure toward Jojusha; 2:00 PM Arrival at Jojusha (including Mochi-maki)
• *July 11**: 7:00 AM Departure from Jojusha; 8:30 AM Departure of Sacred Statues toward Honsha; 12:30 PM Arrival at Honsha Shrine

Venue & Access

This ritual takes place at various shrines around Mt. Ishizuchi.

Essential Information for Participants

If you plan to hike, preparation is required. If climbing from Jojusha, you must register at the worship association desk to obtain a "Mountain Ticket" and wear a red ribbon on your left shoulder. If climbing from Tsuchigoya Yorai-den, you must obtain a ticket and wear a green or blue ribbon on your left shoulder. These ribbons are vital for safety and to ensure hikers stay on the correct route. Engaging in the traditional greetings with other hikers is also a wonderful way to connect with the local culture.

Gear, Clothing & Etiquette

As this involves mountain climbing, professional hiking gear and sturdy footwear are essential. At registration points, you will be asked to present your mountain ticket and undergo a safety check. Please check the official website for the latest rules regarding ceremonies and local protocols.