Chinowa Matsuri Festival

Event Overview

Chinowa Matsuri, also known as 'Wakuguri,' is a sacred Shinto ritual for 'Nagoshi no Harae' (summer purification). Participants walk through a large ring made of cogon grass (chigaya) to cleanse the impurities and sins of the past six months. It is a beautiful Japanese tradition to harness the vital energy of the grass to ensure health and strength through the summer heat.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main highlight is the sacred 'Chinowa-kuguri' ritual. The ceremony begins with the priest cutting the sacred rope (shimenawa) to open the path, allowing participants to walk through the ring to purify themselves. In addition to the ritual, the festival features a lively stage with various performances. You can enjoy a unique blend of traditional Shinto ceremonies and modern entertainment, including music, dance, and even bubble shows, creating a festive atmosphere.

Schedule

The festival takes place over two days.

July 30th

• *18:00~ Opening Ritual**: The priest cuts the sacred rope on the large grass ring to officially begin the festival. Participants use 'hitogata' (paper effigies) to transfer their impurities.
• *Around 19:00~ Dedication Stage**: Enjoy various performances including dance and music on the special stage.

July 31st

• *11:00~ Honden-sai (Main Ritual)**: A sacred ceremony to report the summer purification to the deities. If you wish to enter the shrine's inner sanctum, please register at the shrine office in advance.
• *15:00~ Uchimizu (Water Sprinkling) Event**: A refreshing ritual using well water. This session includes fun activities like bubble performances.
• *Around 17:30~ Dedication Stage**: The stage comes alive again in the evening with various entertainment programs.

Venue & Access

Location: Itakiso Shrine (558 Itakiso, Wakayama City)

Important Notes

Chinowa Matsuri is a sacred Shinto event rather than just a tourist attraction. By following the correct ritual procedures, you can pray for health and protection for the coming months. During the ceremony, participants use paper effigies to symbolically transfer their impurities.

Clothing & Etiquette

Clothing

For sacred rituals like the Honden-sai, please dress respectfully. If you wish to enter the inner sanctum (Gakinaichi), overly casual attire such as T-shirts or shorts may not be permitted. For the Uchimizu event, we recommend wearing clothes that you don't mind getting wet.

Registration

If you wish to participate in the Honden-sai, please complete your registration at the shrine office at least 10 minutes before the ceremony begins.

Payments & Others

Please check the official website for details regarding amulets (omamori) and other sacred items.