Guide
Suho-tei Matsuri is a historic traditional festival held annually at Imi-no-miya Jinja in Chofu, Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. The festival's origins are tied to the historical expeditions of Emperor Chukai, serving as a ritual to celebrate victory. It is widely recognized as a unique and rare "extraordinary festival" (ki-sai) that preserves the profound history and culture of the Yamaguchi region.
The true spectacle of this festival lies in the striking contrast between the male and female ceremonial dances. Men perform a powerful, vigorous dance while carrying "O-nobori"—massive banners reaching 30 meters in height and weighing approximately 100kg. In contrast, women lead an elegant, graceful procession carrying "Kiriko," which are decorative lanterns suspended from bamboo poles. The harmony between the intense, rhythmic movement of the giant banners and the delicate, glowing light of the lanterns creates a breathtaking scene as they dance around the sacred "Onishi" stone within the shrine grounds.
The Suho-tei Matsuri takes place annually from August 7 to August 13. Every evening throughout this period, traditional rituals are performed to the rhythm of ceremonial music (gongs and drums). Please note that specific start times may vary depending on the weather or the progress of the ritual, so it is best to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
The festival is held at Imi-no-miya Jinja, located in the historic Chofu district of Shimonoseki.
Because the rituals involving the lanterns and giant banners take place at night, the shrine is transformed into a mystical, illuminated space. As this is a sacred ritual with deep historical roots, please maintain a respectful attitude and observe the ceremonies quietly.
Since the event is held outdoors at night, please dress appropriately for the evening temperature. For specific details regarding reservations, local payment methods, or English language support, please consult the official website for the most current information.