Matsutaki Matsuri at Osaki Hachiman-gu

Event Overview

Every January 14th, Osaki Hachiman-gu hosts the "Matsutaki Matsuri," a profound ritual with over 300 years of history. This event is one of the largest of its kind in Japan, serving as a sacred ceremony to send off the New Year deities. The ritual involves burning sacred decorations, such as pine decorations (kadomatsu), in a holy fire known as "Imibi." This fire is treated with great reverence as the vessel to guide the gods back to the heavens, and the ceremony is officially designated as an intangible folk cultural property of Sendai.

Highlights and Experience

The most breathtaking moment is the ritual fire that begins at sunset. Watching the traditional decorations and sacred ropes being consumed by the flames in a designated area is a truly majestic sight. Another iconic tradition is the "Hadakamari" (Naked Pilgrimage). Participants, often wearing traditional white headbands and carrying lanterns, brave the freezing winter air with immense fervor. This sight of spirited devotion amidst the biting cold is a quintessential symbol of Sendai's winter spirit.

Schedule

The Matsutaki Matsuri is held annually on January 14th.

• *Prayer Reception**: 9:00 to 21:00
• *Ritual Burning**: Starts around sunset

Venue and Access

The event takes place at Osaki Hachiman-gu.

• *JR Senzan Line**: The nearest stations are Tohoku Fukushi-dai-mae Station or Kunimi Station. It is approximately a 15-minute walk from Tohoku Fukushi-dai-mae Station.
• *Sendai City Bus (Special Service)**: Special shuttle buses operate from the Sendai Station West Exit Bus Pool (Platforms 13 and 14).
• *Return Trip**: You can use the special service buses from the "Ryuhouji Iriguchi" bus stop on your way back.

Participation Notes

As this is a sacred ritual, please be mindful of what is offered to the fire. Only items related to the ritual (such as pine decorations or shrine-related items) are permitted. Please do not offer non-ritual items like papers, photos, or plastic products.

What to Bring and Wear

Since this event occurs during the peak of winter, please prepare thoroughly for the extreme cold. For those participating in the Hadakamari, traditional attire (such as white headbands) is common. Because of traffic restrictions around the shrine, please avoid driving and use public transport instead. Please check the official website for more details.