Guida
The Noboribetsu Onsen Yu Matsuri is a traditional winter festival held to express gratitude for the abundant hot springs and to pray for good luck and health. Held around the Setsubun season, it offers a unique cultural experience where the 'Yu-Kijin' (Red and Blue Demons) appear throughout the hot spring town.
The main spectacle is the 'Gensen Yu-kake Kassen' (Hot Spring Water Battle) on the second day. Young men in traditional loincloths splash hot water in a high-energy battle that electrifies the crowd. You can also witness the 'Yu-Kijin'—messengers of the Enma King—parading through the streets and performing dances to ward off evil. Additionally, enjoy traditional festivities like the 'Kodakara Mochi-tsuki Mai' (fertility prayer dance) and the distribution of sweet amazake and rice cakes.
Dates: February 3rd and February 4th
The event takes place throughout the Noboribetsu Onsen area and Sengen Park.
As this festival is held in mid-winter, it will be extremely cold. The area around Sengen Park during the water battle is particularly intense with both heat and cold. Please wear comfortable clothing for walking around the shops and hotels to watch the parade.