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Murone Shrine Special Grand Festival

Guide

Murone Shrine Special Grand Festival

6 min read

Event Overview

The Murone Shrine Special Grand Festival is a historic ritual centered around Murone Shrine in Ichinoseki, Iwate. Designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, it is one of the three great festivals of the Tohoku region. The festival recreates the history of receiving divine spirits from Kumano Grand Shrine. While traditionally held in leap years, it is now held from the last Friday to Sunday of October.

Highlights

The climax is the 'Mikoshi Race' held in the early morning of the final day. Two shrines, 'Hongu' and 'Shingu,' race down the dark mountain path toward the Matsuriba area. This intense competition is believed to predict the year's harvest. You can also witness the 'Aruma Senjin' horseback procession, the 'Sode Senjin' parade mimicking Edo-period travel, and the elegant 'Maiko Dance' performed at the shrine. It is a breathtaking display of Japanese tradition.

Schedule

The festival spans three days. For 2026, it is scheduled for October 23–25.

  • 2:00 PM: Rituals at Nanryu Shrine
  • 2:00 PM: Processions and Horsehood rituals at the town area
  • 10:00 PM: Rituals at Murone Shrine
  • 1:30 AM: Neighborhood procession
  • 4:00 AM: Spirit transfer and Shrine descent
  • 7:15 AM: The intense Mikoshi Race (Shrine race to the bottom)
  • 8:00 AM: Horseback processions and Maiko Dance
  • 9:30 AM: Final rituals and Shrine return

Venue & Access

Located at Murone Shrine and the surrounding Orikabe area in Ichinoseki, Iwate.

  • *By Train/Bus**: Approx. 10-minute walk from JR Orikabe Station. Alternatively, use Iwate Kotsu Bus to 'Ichinoseki Shiyakusho Murone Shisho-mae'.
  • *By Car**: Via Route 284 to Orikabe. Special parking is available near the Murone branch office.

Participation Tips

This is a strict traditional event. If you wish to carry a Mikoshi as a 'Rokushaku,' you must purchase a specific 'Hanten' jacket at the local office during the festival. Following the instructions of the shrine officials is essential to respect the tradition.

Clothing & Etiquette

  • *For Mikoshi Bearers**: Wearing the designated Hanten and traditional footwear (Jikatabi) is mandatory. Regular sneakers or boots are not allowed.
  • *Prohibited Items**: Do not wear hats or red clothing/patterns during rituals, as red is reserved for officials.
  • *Reservations**: No advanced booking is required to watch, but please check the official site for the latest rules.