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Ube Jinja Annual Festival

Guide

Ube Jinja Annual Festival

5 min read

Event Overview

Ube Jinja is the most important shrine in the ancient Inaba Province, located in Tottori Prefecture. This annual festival celebrates traditions that have been preserved for approximately 350 years. The rituals are deeply cherished by the local community and are known to bring blessings for business prosperity and good fortune.

Highlights & What to Expect

The main highlight is the performance of the "Kirin Shishi Dance," a designated intangible folk cultural property. This unique lion dance, characterized by a single horn, is renowned for its solemn and majestic movements. During the Mikoshi Festival, you can witness the breathtaking sight of massive portable shrines being carried up the stone steps. Visitors can also enjoy the beauty of Japanese tradition through the warrior processions, the "Yacco Dance" (recreating the historical feudal lord's entourage), and the elegant dances of Miko shrine maidens in their striking red and white attire.

Schedule

The festival consists of several ritual days:

  • *Yoimiya (Eve)**: April 20
  • *Reisai (Main Festival)**: April 21
  • *Mikoshi Festival**: A Saturday or Sunday near April 21 (Note: Dates may vary annually; please check the latest schedule locally)

Venue & Access

The event takes place at Ube Jinja.

  • *Address**: 651 Miyashita, Kokufu-cho, Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture
  • *By Car**: Approximately 15 minutes from JR Tottori Station. Free parking is available (117 standard cars, 6 buses).
  • *By Public Transport**: Approximately 15 minutes by bus from JR Tottori Station. Get off at the "Miyanoshita" stop, followed by a 7-minute walk.

Tips for Visitors

The Mikoshi and the main rituals are incredibly high-energy events. Seeing the massive portable shrines ascend the stone steps and witnessing the rare Kirin Shishi Dance are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. These ceremonies offer a profound way to understand Japan's spiritual and historical culture.

Essentials & Etiquette

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes, as the shrine grounds feature many stone steps. As this is a sacred Shinto ritual, please maintain a respectful attitude toward the ceremonies and the local community.