Kaku Shrine Autumn Festival: Kaku-no-Ichi

Event Overview

Located in Oita City, the "Kaku-no-Ichi" Autumn Festival at Kaku Shrine is one of the earliest and most significant autumn celebrations in the prefecture. This festival marks the sacred return of the deity, who usually resides at the Kusabara Hachiman-gu shrine, back to Kaku Shrine. To honor this divine transition, local communities perform traditional Kagura dances and sacred rituals, preserving the deep-rooted spiritual heritage of the Bungo region.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The true charm of this festival lies in the coexistence of solemn religious rituals and a lively, bustling market. You can witness the sacred Kagura dances performed in a dignified atmosphere, offering a profound glimpse into Japan's spiritual traditions. Simultaneously, the shrine grounds transform into a vibrant "Kaku-no-Ichi" market, filled with numerous food stalls (Yatai) offering local delicacies, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for families and tourists alike.

A major highlight is the "Dedication Fireworks" scheduled for the 6th. Watching fireworks illuminate the autumn night sky is a breathtaking experience that brings the festival to a thrilling climax. Combining sacred rituals, spectacular fireworks, and a lively market, this event offers a complete cultural immersion.

Schedule

The festival takes place from September 1st to September 7th. Please note that ritual times vary by date:

• *September 1st**: The "Ochiri" ritual (the descent of the deity) begins at 18:00.
• *September 6th**: The Dedication Fireworks are scheduled to take place.
• *September 7th**: The "Oagari" ritual (the ascent of the deity) begins at 20:00.

Venue & Access

The event is held at Kaku Shrine and its surrounding areas.

The shrine is located at 58 Kaku, Oita City, Oita Prefecture. The area is steeped in history, but please expect heavy crowds during the festival. We recommend using public transportation and allowing extra travel time.

Tips for Visitors

To fully enjoy the experience, keep an eye on both the ritual times and the market activity. The fireworks on the 6th are a major highlight, so it is highly recommended to secure a viewing spot early. Since the "Oagari" ritual occurs on the final night, check the schedule in advance if you wish to witness the festival's grand conclusion.

Clothing & Etiquette

As this is an evening event, please bring a light jacket or wrap to stay comfortable as temperatures drop at night. Especially during the fireworks on the 6th, having an extra layer is practical. Since sacred rituals are performed on-site, please maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor to honor the shrine's sanctity and the surrounding worshippers.