Guide
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.
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.
The festival consists of several ritual days:
The event takes place at Ube Jinja.
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.
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.