Guida
Miyoshi Bonten Matsuri is a unique ritual way of life in Akita Prefecture that has continued since the Edo period. It is held to pray for bountiful harvests, family safety, and industrial prosperity. Participants offer 'Bonten'—vibrantly decorated structures—to the deities. Today, the ritual involves local communities, corporations, and even children's groups, all coming together to pray for a prosperous year.
The defining feature of this festival is its sheer intensity and bravery. Known as 'Kenka Bonten' (fighting Bonten), the various groups compete fiercely as they push toward the shrine. The scene is a whirlwind of energy: groups fighting to present their Bonten, others attempting to obstruct them, and spectators striving to grab the sacred 'Sankaku-mori' believed to hold great spiritual power. Seeing these brightly decorated structures clash amidst the falling snow is a truly spectacular sight.
The festival is held annually on January 17th.
The event takes place at Taiheizan Miyoshi Shrine.
The climax of the festival is the intense struggle for the lead position within the shrine grounds. Groups approach the shrine while singing the traditional 'Miyoshi-bushi' folk song, accompanied by the rhythmic sound of conch shells. This unique melody and the spirited calls of the participants heighten the electric atmosphere of the event.
As the festival occurs in mid-January, it is held during an extremely cold period. Please prepare thoroughly for the freezing temperatures and potential snowfall by wearing heavy winter clothing. Additionally, please stay alert and mindful of your surroundings, as the area where the physical pushing occurs can become very crowded and intense.