Ishioka no Omatsuri (Hitachikuni Soshagu Jinja Festival)

Event Overview

The Hitachikuni Soshagu Jinja Festival, commonly known as 'Ishioka no Omatsuri,' is the most significant ritual for the Hitachikuni Soshagu Jinja, an ancient shrine with a 1,000-year history located in Ishioka City, Ibaraki Prefecture. Recognized as one of the three great festivals of the Kanto region, it is held annually for three days in September, including Respect for the Aged Day. This massive event attracts approximately 500,000 spectators to witness the parade of magnificent floats, lion dancers, and portable shrines (mikoshi) praying for health and safety.

Highlights and How to Enjoy

The greatest draw of this festival is the sight of the spectacular 'Dashi' (floats) and the brave 'Horoshishi' (lion dancers) parading through the streets to the rhythmic sounds of 'Ishioka Hayashi' music. The performances atop the floats—which feature a unique dancing platform at the front—are truly breathtaking. A standout feature is the 'Horoshishi,' where a lion head is attached to a large carriage covered with a cloth canopy, a rare and striking sight. You can also enjoy the elegant 'Sasara' dance and the powerful procession of the large divine portable shrines (Omikoshi).

Schedule

The festival is held over three days in September, including Respect for the Aged Day. The typical structure is as follows:

• *Day 1 (Shinkosai)**: The divine procession begins as the Omikoshi moves from Hitachikuni Soshagu Jinja to the temporary shrine in the designated town. A procession of over 2,000 people begins following the signal of fireworks at 2:00 PM.
• *Day 2 (Hoshukusai)**: The morning features sumo wrestling at the shrine, followed by Miko (shrine maiden) dances and Kagura performances in the afternoon. From the evening, the festival reaches its peak with the Horoshishi and float parades through the main streets.
• *Day 3 (Kanshosai)**: At 2:00 PM, the Omikoshi departs from the temporary shrine and follows the reverse route back to Hitachikuni Soshagu Jinja.

Venue and Access

The festivities center around Hitachikuni Soshagu Jinja and the downtown area of Ishioka City.

• *By Train**: Take the JR Joban Line to Ishioka Station, followed by an approximately 20-minute walk (about 1.2 km).
• *By Car**: Approximately 10 minutes from the Chiyoda-Ishioka IC on the Joban Expressway via Route 6. Due to heavy traffic regulations during the festival, public transport is highly recommended.
• *Park & Ride**: To avoid congestion, it is recommended to use temporary parking lots at Ishioka City Sports Park or Tamari B&G Ocean Center, and then take the 'Kashitesu Bus' to the venue.

Tips for Visitors

The festival follows the 'Nenban' tradition, where a specific neighborhood takes the lead role every 15 years. During these years, a temporary shrine called 'Okariya' is established. To plan your viewing route efficiently, consider using your smartphone to check the 'Float and Lion Position Information System' if it is available during your visit.

What to Bring, Clothing, and Etiquette

• *Clothing**: Expect heavy crowds and long periods of standing. Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.
• *Essentials**: As this is an outdoor event, bring rain gear and beverages for hydration.
• *Etiquette**: Large-scale traffic restrictions will be in place. Please check the official website for the latest information on road closures and parking. For safety, please be mindful of personal space and follow local health and safety guidelines.