Guide
Hachinohe Enburi is a traditional ritual held in the Hachinohe region of Aomori Prefecture to welcome the arrival of spring and pray for a bountiful harvest. Designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan, it holds immense cultural value deeply rooted in the local history. This event is a significant ritual that embodies the hopes of the people waiting for the end of the harsh winter.
The festival is based on agricultural culture, specifically rice cultivation. The performances incorporate the sequence of farming-related movements, such as sowing seeds and transplanting rice, expressing gratitude to nature and prayers for prosperity. Historically, it has been passed down as a folk performing art deeply embedded in the lifestyle of the Hachinohe region. The unique style of wearing an eboshi (hat) shaped like a horse's head serves as a distinctive cultural symbol of this area.
The most striking feature is the unique dance performed by dancers known as 'Tayu.' Wearing elaborate eboshi hats that resemble horse heads, they perform the 'Suri' movement, which involves vigorous and rhythmic head-shaking. Additionally, the charming performances by children are a key element of the festival. The atmosphere is filled with various traditional musical accompaniment (ohayashi) that changes with each scene, creating different rhythms and movements.
The festival takes place over four days, from February 17th to 20th every year. Since mid-February in Aomori is extremely cold, heavy winter clothing is essential. The schedule varies by day; for example, February 17th typically begins with a morning dedication, followed by a mass 'Suri' dance and processions in the morning. In the evenings, special events such as 'Oniwa Enburi' are held at historical architectural sites.
Watching this festival offers a chance to learn about the forms of traditional Japanese agricultural rituals. The moment the 'Zai' (conductor) signals the start of the music and the mass 'Suri' dance, you can feel the strong sense of community and the connection to the gods of the fields. Through these events held in historical buildings and city streets, you can experience the traditional timeline of the region.
The main venues for the festival are the Hachinohe city center and the area around the Hachinohe City Hall Civic Plaza. Historical buildings such as 'Kojokaku,' a registered tangible cultural property, also serve as venues for special performances. The surrounding area is well-equipped with hotels and facilities that support local culture and tourism.
Because February in Aomori often involves snow and ice, heavy coats, gloves, hats, and heat packs (kairo) are mandatory. Please choose footwear with good grip for walking on snowy or icy paths. Depending on the schedule, you may need to stand while watching. When near historical cultural properties or shrines, please be mindful of your surroundings.