Toba no Himatsuri Fire Festival

Event Overview

Toba no Himatsuri is a historic fire festival held at Toba Shinmeisha Shrine in Toba-cho, Nishio City, Aichi Prefecture. Its origins date back approximately 1,200 years to the Daido era (806–810 AD), and it is designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. While it was traditionally held on the 7th day of the first lunar month, it is now typically held on the second Sunday of February.

This festival serves as a vital ritual to demonstrate the unity of the local community, divided into the 'Fukuchi' and 'Kenchi' districts. The central figure is the 'Shin-otoko' (sacred man), a 25-year-old man undergoing his unlucky year. On the day of the festival, he performs purification rituals involving ice water in the morning, and in the afternoon, he and other participants enter the Mikawa Bay in traditional loincloths to purify themselves.

Highlights & What to Expect

The main highlight is the ritual surrounding the 'Suzumi,' a massive structure that stands 5 meters tall. Each structure requires 2 tons of silver grass and 60 green bamboo poles. As the flaming 'Suzumi' is struck by a pine pole, the Shin-otoko and participants known as 'Neko' compete to retrieve the sacred wood and twelve ropes from within the fire.

This intense competition is believed to predict the weather and the success of the year's harvest. The sight of the ritual unfolding amidst the roaring flames offers an overwhelming sense of energy and tradition.

Date & Schedule

The festival is held annually on the second Sunday of February.

Venue & Access

The event takes place at Toba Shinmeisha Shrine.

Visitor Information

This is a sacred ritual deeply rooted in local tradition. The ceremony, including the ritual of participants entering the sea in loincloths, is a solemn and traditional event. Visitors are asked to respect the local culture and observe the ritual quietly.

Essentials & Etiquette

As this is a winter event, please ensure you dress warmly for the cold. For details regarding local payment methods or English language support, please consult the official website.