Otaue Matsuri (Isasumi Shrine): guida alla visita

Event Overview

The Otaue Matsuri of Isasumi Shrine is a vital ritual that preserves Japan's traditional agricultural ceremonies. Along with the 'Morning Planting' of Ise Jingu and 'Evening Planting' of Atsuta Jingu, this festival is recognized as one of Japan's three great 'Daytime Rice Planting' (Hirutaue) festivals. Designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, it holds immense historical and cultural value. Held annually from July 11 to July 13, the event features sacred rituals alongside local traditional performing arts.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main attractions are the traditional Saotome-odori (dance) and the solemn rice planting ceremony. The Saotome-odori, a tradition passed down through the male lineages of the Sabukawa district, features dancers in traditional patterned clothing and red aprons performing elegant yet humorous dances. On July 12, you can also witness the Shishi-oi ritual, where children wear masks of lions, oxen, horses, and deer, followed by the Mikoshi Togyo, a grand procession of over 200 people carrying a portable shrine. Along the route, you may hear Saibara, an ancient song that evokes the atmosphere of ancient rice planting, making you feel as if you have traveled back in time.

Schedule

The festival spans three days, with the main events concentrated on July 12.

17:00: Otaue Matsuri Oharae, Yoimiya-sai
18:00: Taikodai Miyagari, Taikodai Ohayashi, Menowagukuri
06:00: Fomita Shrine Annual Festival
09:30: Otaue Matsuri Shinkosai (Shishi-oi Children Departure)
10:30: Sabukawa Saotome-odori Dedication
12:30: Hakusho-sai, Mikoshi Togyo Departure
15:00: Kanda Matsuri, Rice Planting Ceremony, Saotome-odori, Mikoshi Togyo Departure
16:00: Gengo-sai
05:00: Sana-naoshi-sai
10:00: Sana-furi-sai

Venue & Access

The festival takes place across several locations centered around Isasumi Shrine.

*Isasumi Shrine**: The main venue for the festival.
*Omita Shrine**: Located near Aizu-Takada Station; a key site for the rice planting ceremony.
*Fomita Shrine**: Located within the grounds of Aizu Nishi Ling High School.
*Ochurisho**: Located in front of the JA Aizu Yotsuba Takada branch.

Tips for Visitors

The Otaue Matsuri is more than just an event; it is a sacred ritual deeply rooted in the community. The rice planting ceremony at Omita Shrine and the grand Mikoshi procession on the afternoon of July 12 are particularly spectacular. The elegant Saotome dance and the masked children's Shishi-oi ritual are rare sights only visible during this season. Checking the procession routes and specific shrine schedules in advance will ensure a smooth experience.

What to Bring & Etiquette

As this is a long outdoor event, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing and bringing a hat, umbrella, and water to protect against sun and heat. Please respect the sacred nature of the ritual and maintain decorum around local worshippers and participants.