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Izawa-no-miya Otaue Matsuri

Guide

Izawa-no-miya Otaue Matsuri

7 min read

Event Overview

Izawa-no-miya Otaue Matsuri is a traditional festival held annually on June 24th around the Izawa-no-miya Shrine in Shima City, Mie Prefecture. This highly prestigious event is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan and is considered one of Japan's three great Otaue (rice planting) festivals. Seeing people dressed in elegant Heian-period costumes performing rituals in the sacred rice fields is a breathtaking display of Japanese cultural heritage.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The most captivating parts of this festival are the rhythmic rice planting and the high-energy climax involving the bamboo ritual.

  • *Traditional Attire and Dengaku Music**: Watching people in Heian-style clothing plant seedlings to the sound of flutes and drums is a stunning sight. The dance of the "Saotome" (young women) is a major highlight.
  • *Taketori Shinji (Bamboo Ritual)**: This is a high-energy moment where men compete intensely to grab a sacred bamboo stalk decorated with a fan labeled "Taichi." The fragments of this bamboo are later used in rituals to pray for a bountiful catch.
  • *Odori-komi (Procession)**: At the end of the festival, a lively procession moves about 200 meters from the sacred rice fields to the Izawa-no-miya Torii gate, accompanied by rhythmic singing and dancing.

Schedule

The festival is held every year on June 24th.

1. Hairei (Prayer): A purification ritual performed by priests to pray for the festival's success.

2. Naebari (Seedling Ritual): A ritual involving the movement around the seedling beds.

3. Taketori Shinji (Bamboo Ritual): An energetic competition among men to seize the sacred bamboo.

4. Otaue Shinji (Rice Planting Ritual): Women and men plant seedlings to the sounds of flutes and drums. Traditional sake is often shared during this time.

5. Odori-komi (Procession): A rhythmic march from the rice fields to the shrine gate.

6. Closing Ceremony: The event concludes with short dances using drums and bamboo rattles.

Venue & Access

The event takes place around the Izawa-no-miya Shrine area.

  • *Train**: Approximately a 3-minute walk from Kintetsu Kami-no-go Station.
  • *Car**: About 10 minutes from the Dai-ni Ise Road "Shiraki IC" exit.
  • *Parking**: Free parking is available during the event.

Tips for Visitors

This is a rare opportunity to witness the deep connection between nature and spirituality in Japan. The intense energy of the "Taketori" bamboo ritual and the elegant melodies of the traditional music offer a profound look into Japanese culture.

Essentials: Clothing & Etiquette

  • *Clothing**: As the rituals take place outdoors, please wear comfortable walking shoes. Since it is held in late June, we recommend bringing a hat and drinks to stay cool.
  • *Payment & Reservations**: There is no fee to participate in the festival. For nearby dining or sightseeing, please check local information in advance.
  • *Etiquette**: Please maintain respect for the sacred rituals. When taking photos, be mindful of the ceremony's flow and avoid obstructing the participants.