Guide
Heikoku-sai is a traditional Shinto procession centered around Keta Taisha Shrine in Hakui City, Ishikawa Prefecture. The ritual is deeply rooted in the legend of the deity Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, who is said to have pacified the Noto region. Led by a sacred horse (Shinme), a procession of more than 50 participants dressed in traditional white robes travels approximately 300 km across the cities and towns of Hakui, Nanao, Shika, Hodatsushimizu, and Noto. Known by the local saying, "Even the cold is chased away by the arrival of the Oide," this event is a beloved milestone for the people of Noto, signaling the end of winter and the beginning of the spring farming season.
The ritual is deeply connected to the historical governance of the Noto region. Based on the legend of the deity Okuninushi-no-Mikoto pacifying the land, the procession serves to spread the divine influence throughout the community. Passed down through generations as a vital local tradition, this event is more than just a festival; it serves as a cultural marker for the seasonal transition, signaling that the harsh Noto winters are ending and the preparations for spring cultivation can begin.
The most striking sight is the procession led by the sacred horse, followed by a long line of participants in traditional white attire. Watching the procession move through natural landscapes and residential streets offers a profound glimpse into the authentic forms of Japanese traditional rituals. The presence of lanterns and ceremonial signboards throughout the procession further emphasizes the sacred and ritualistic nature of the event.
Heikoku-sai is typically held in mid-March. The procession begins at Keta Taisha Shrine at 7:00 AM on March 18th and continues for several days. Because the route is exceptionally long, the best viewing spots and times will vary depending on which part of the 300 km route the procession is currently passing through. Since it celebrates the arrival of spring, visitors can observe the subtle changes in the regional landscape during this seasonal transition.
This is not a stationary event held in one location, but a mobile procession that moves through the region. Visitors can observe the traditional parade from the roadside or from the streets of the towns the procession passes through. Seeing the sacred horse and the participants in their traditional costumes is a rare and precious sight that symbolizes the history of the Nlu region.
The starting point of the festival is Keta Taisha Shrine in Hakui City. The surrounding area is rich in nature and local history. Hakui also features various facilities for enjoying nature and leisure, allowing travelers to combine a visit to the festival with exploring nearby historical sites and scenic landscapes.
As the festival takes place in March, temperatures in the Noto region can still be quite low. Please dress warmly to stay comfortable. Since the procession moves through public roads, unpaved paths, and residential areas, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.