Guide
The Hyottoko Summer Festival is a traditional summer celebration held annually in early August in Hyuga City, Miyazaki Prefecture. Its origins lie in the 'Nagata no Hyottoko Odori' created during the late Meiji era, and it is now preserved as an important intangible folk cultural property of Hyuga City. The most striking feature is the parade where dancers wearing comical masks march rhythmically to the beat of traditional music (ohayashi). In recent years, the festival has grown significantly, attracting over 2,000 dancers from all over Japan. The sight of the city center being dyed in the vibrant red of traditional kimonos is truly spectacular. With an annual attendance of over 70,000 people, it is recognized as one of the major summer festivals in Miyazaki.
The roots of this festival trace back to the 'Nagata no Hyottoko Odori,' devised by Dr. Kimiyuki Tachibana in the Nagata district of Shiomi, Hyuga City, during the late Meiji era. Dr. Tachibana drew inspiration from local folklore and Edo-period Shinkura to spread this dance as a way to pray for bountiful harvests and prosperity. In 1984, the festival was restructured into its current form, the 'Hyottoko Summer Festival,' with the ambition of making the local 'Hyottoko' dance as famous as the Awa Odori of Shikoku. Its historical and cultural value was officially recognized in 1992 when it was designated as an intangible folk cultural property of Hyuga City.
The highlight of the festival is the 'Hyottoko Odori Parade' through the city center. Dancers move to the unique rhythmic phrase 'Ten-teko-ten, Ten-teko-ten,' appearing in sequences of Kitsune (fox), Okame, Hyottoko, and Wakaishu (youth). The dance is characterized by dynamic movements, such as stepping forward with one foot and extending a hand in a rhythmic pattern. Additionally, the eve of the festival features the 'Hyottoko Odori Individual Competition,' a national tournament where dancers compete in categories like Kitsune, Okame, Hyottoko, and Kids. A unique way to interact with the performers is through the 'Dancer Medal' system, where spectators can show their appreciation for a performer's skill.
The festival is primarily held on the first Saturday of August. Since it takes place during the peak of summer heat, the main events occur from evening into the night. The parade time is a visually stunning period when the streets are filled with the color of red kimonos. The eve of the festival is also an excellent time to witness the depth of traditional arts through the competitive dance performances.
Beyond watching the parade, visitors can enjoy a close-up experience with the dancers. In certain segments, spectators can participate by giving 'Dancer Medals' to their favorite performers, fostering a sense of community. To enjoy the performance more deeply, it is helpful to understand the 'Ten-teko-ten' rhythm used in the music. The preservation of this culture is supported by the use of official CDs for practicing the dance.
The main venue is the Akagare Hiroba (Hyuga Station Plaza) and the central downtown area near Hyuga City Station. The festival's melody is even used in the arrival melody of JR Hyuga Station, allowing you to feel the festive atmosphere even before arriving at the main site.