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Yugasan Hiwatari Grand Festival

Guide

Yugasan Hiwatari Grand Festival

7 min read

Event Overview

Located at Yuga Jinja Hongu in Kurashiki, Okayama, the Yugasan Hiwatari Grand Festival is held annually on November 3rd. This historic event is deeply rooted in the tradition of 'Yuga-Konpira RyĹŤ-mairi,' a pilgrimage connecting this shrine with the sacred sites of Shikoku. Yuga Jinja Hongu is revered as one of Japan's three major shrines for warding off evil and misfortune.

The highlight of this festival is the ritual of combining the sacred fires of Yuga Shrine with the divine fire of Kotohira-gu in Shikoku. After ritual sticks are cast into the blazing bonfire, participants perform the 'Hiwatari' (fire walking) ritual, walking barefoot through the intense heat to pray for good health and longevity.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The most striking moment is undoubtedly the 'Hiwatari' fire walking. The sight of the roaring flames and the palpable heat is an overwhelming experience. Visitors and tourists are welcome to both observe and participate in this sacred ritual.

Beyond the fire walking, the festival features various cultural performances. Around noon, the powerful 'Yuga Taiko' drumming from Kojima begins, heightening the festive atmosphere. You may also experience 'Imoni Osettai' (traditional hospitality) starting from 11:00, where locals offer warm hospitality, allowing you to feel the true spirit of Japanese tradition. The warmth of the fire and the community will surely warm your heart even in the chilly November air.

Schedule

The festival is held every year on November 3rd. A typical schedule is as follows:

  • 11:00–13:00: Imoni Hospitality (Traditional food service)
  • 12:00–: Kojima Yuga Taiko Drumming Performance
  • 13:00–: Shito Daigoma Prayer (Hot water ritual)
  • Around 14:30: Hiwatari (Fire Walking Ritual)
  • 15:15–: Fuku-mochi & Fuku-kashi (Lucky rice cake/sweet throwing)
  • 15:30–: Lucky Draw

Venue & Access

The event takes place at Yuga Jinja Hongu in Kurashiki, Okayama.

  • *By Car**: Approximately 20 minutes from the Kojima IC on the Seto-Chuo Expressway. Parking is available for about 300 standard cars and 10 large vehicles.
  • *By Public Transport**: About a 10-minute taxi ride from JR Kojima Station or Kami-no-machi Station, or a 7-minute walk from the Yugayama Sando entrance.

Tips for Visitors

The fire walking ritual is an opportunity to actually participate, not just watch. Since you will be walking barefoot over hot embers, please prepare accordingly. The latter part of the festival includes exciting events like the 'Lucky Rice Cake Throwing' and a 'Lucky Draw,' which are essential parts of the celebration. Don't miss these moments!

What to Bring & Etiquette

As the festival takes place in early November, we highly recommend bringing warm clothing to stay comfortable. If you intend to participate in the fire walking, prepare for the barefoot experience. It is also helpful to carry small amounts of cash for the local hospitality (Osettai) events. We recommend checking the official website for any specific rules or reservation requirements.