Guida
Seihakusai Festival (Otononushi Shrine)
5 min di letturaEvent Overview
Seihakusai is the most grand spring festival in the Noto region, held at Otononushi Shrine (Sanno Shrine) in Nanao City, Ishikawa Prefecture. The name 'Seihakusai' comes from the ritual of offering food on green oak (kashiwa) leaves. This significant cultural event is recognized as a UNESCO Intangltible Cultural Heritage, representing a vital piece of Japanese tradition.
Highlights and How to Enjoy
The main highlight is the procession of the massive 'Dekayama' floats. These floats are among the largest in Japan, standing 12 meters tall and weighing 20 tons, with wheels 2 meters in diameter. A truly thrilling moment is the 'Tsujimawashi'—the sight of these magnificent, heavy floats skillfully turning through narrow streets in the Kaji-machi, Fuchu-machi, and Uomachi districts. Visitors may even have the chance to participate in pulling the floats, allowing you to feel the intense energy of the festival firsthand.
Schedule
The festival features various rituals and processions over three days.
- *May 2nd**
- 18:00~: Ningyo-mi (A traditional event where decorative dolls are displayed in households)
- *May 3rd**
- 21:00~: Start of the float pull for Kaji-machi (Yoiyama)
- *May 4th**
- 01:00~: Start of the float pull for Fuchu-machi (Asayama)
- 08:00~: Start of the float pull for Uomachi (Honyama)
- Around 12:30: Gathering of the floats at Otononushi Shrine (Main highlight)
- *May 5th**
- 07:00~: City procession by the three floats (Urayama)
Venue and Access
The event takes place in the central areas of Nanao City and around Otononushi Shrine.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Venue | Around Otononushi Shrine (and central Nanao City) |
| Access | Approx. 10-minute walk from JR Nanao Station |
Tips for Visitors
A smartphone-based 'Dekayama Location Information Service' is available during the festival to help you track the float locations, temporary parking lots, and restroom locations. Please note that traffic restrictions will be in place throughout the city during the processions, so please plan your travel in advance.
Clothing and Etiquette
- *Clothing**: We recommend comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor viewing or if you participate in pulling the floats.
- *Reservations**: No advance reservation is required for viewing, but as it is very crowded, using public transportation is highly recommended.
- *Payment**: Please check the official website for specific details.