Matsutaki Festival

Event Overview

The Matsutaki Festival is a traditional event held every year on January 14th at Osaki Hachiman-gu Shrine in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture. It has a history spanning over 300 years and is also known locally as 'Sagicho' or 'Dondoyaki' due to the intense energy of the flames. The festival is a ritual to send off the deities that visited during the New Year by burning New Year decorations and sacred talismans. Designated as an intangible folk cultural property of Sendai City, it offers a rare opportunity to deeply experience Japan's traditional spiritual culture.

Highlights & What to Expect

The main highlight is the 'Goshinka' (sacred fire) ceremony, where a large fire is lit at a corner of the shrine grounds as the sun sets. Watching the decorations, such as Kadomatsu (pine decorations) and Shimenawa (sacred ropes), being engulfed in massive flames is both mystical and powerful. This fire is believed to bring health and safety for the coming year.

Another striking sight is the 'Hadakamari' (naked pilgrimage), where many people gather in white headbands and traditional garments to pray amidst the intense cold. This tradition, which dates back to the mid-Edo period, originated as a prayer for safe sake brewing. Seeing thousands of people praying with such fervor in the freezing cold is a quintessential winter scene of Sendai, the 'City of Trees.' The shrine grounds also feature night stalls, creating a lively atmosphere.

Schedule

The Matsutaki Festival is held annually on January 14th.

• *Prayer Reception**: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• *Ignition Ceremony**: Starts around sunset

Venue & Access

The venue is Osaki Hachiman-gu Shrine (Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi).

• *JR Senzan Line**: Approximately a 15-minute walk from Tohoku Fukushi-dai-mae Station.
• *Sendai City Bus**: Directly accessible from the 'Osaki Hachiman-gu-mae' bus stop.
• *Special Services**: Temporary bus services may operate from the Sendai Station West Exit Bus Pool (Platforms 13 & 14). Please check the official Sendai City Transportation Bureau website for details.

Tips for Visitors

The Matsutaki Festival is extremely crowded, and traffic restrictions are implemented, especially in the evening. We strongly recommend using public transportation for a smooth journey. As the 'Hadakamari' takes place in freezing temperatures, please ensure you are fully prepared for the cold. As this is a sacred ritual, please observe the ceremonies with respect and mindfulness of the surroundings.

What to Bring & Etiquette

• *Clothing**: Since the event occurs in extreme cold, heavy coats, thermal wear, and heat packs (kairo) are essential. If you are observing the Hadakamari, extra warmth is highly recommended.
• *Items to Bring**: If you wish to burn Kadomatsu or sacred talismans, please ensure they are free of plastic or non-combustible parts. Note that dolls, photos, or documents cannot be accepted for burning.
• *Payment**: For prayers or related fees, we recommend checking the official website in advance for details.
• *Etiquette**: This is a sacred ritual. Please be careful around the fire and maintain a respectful silence while watching the ceremony.