Toyohashi Gion Festival (Tezutsu Hanabi)

Event Overview

The Toyohashi Gion Festival is a historic ritual believed to have originated in 1124. It is a sacred event held at Yoshida Shrine to honor the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto, preserved and cherished by the local community for centuries. A standout feature is the "Tezutsu Hanabi" (hand-held barrel fireworks), a uniquely powerful performance rooted in the history of the Mikawa region, where gunpowder manufacturing and storage were once permitted during the Edo period. The intense use of fire serves as a ritual to drive away evil spirits, making it a vital tradition for praying for good health and protection.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The ultimate highlight is the dedication of the "Tezutsu Hanabi" within the Yoshida Shrine grounds. Watching the golden fire pillars erupt dynamically from the performers' handheld barrels is a breathtaking sight. Additionally, the "Fireworks Display" held as a pre-festival event is one of the largest in the Higashi-Mikawa region. From massive 140m starmines to elaborate fireworks launched from boats on the river, the light displays are truly captivating. You can also enjoy "Daytime Fireworks" before sunset, allowing you to experience two different faces of the festival.

Schedule

The festival consists of various rituals held over several days:

• *June 25**: Children's Sasawari (Bamboo Dance) takes place.
• *June 26**: Dedication of Tezutsu, Otsutsu, and Randama fireworks at Yoshida Shrine.
• *June 27**: Large-scale fireworks display at the Toyokawa riverbank.
• *June 28**: Main festival, Mikoshi procession, and Sasawari (Torimoto procession) at Yoshida Shrine.

Venue & Access

The main venues are the Yoshida Shrine grounds and the Toyokawa riverbank.

• *Yoshida Shrine**: 2 Sekiya-cho, Toyohashi, Aichi
• *Toyokawa Riverbank**: Venue for the fireworks display
• From Toyohashi Station, take the Toyotetsu Tram to "Fudaki Station" or "Shiyakomae Station" (approx. 7-8 min walk).
• From Toyohashi Station, take the Toyotetsu Bus (Shin-Toyo/Toyokawa Line) to "Toyohashi-Shiyakusho-mae" (approx. 1 min walk).
• Approximately 30-40 minutes from either the "Toyokawa IC" or "Otowa-Bungo IC" on the Tomei Expressway.

Tips for Visitors

The Tezutsu Hanabi is incredibly powerful, characterized by the dynamic movement of flying sparks. Please be aware that the fireworks display attracts large crowds, and it tends to be very busy. Crowds often ease slightly after 8:00 PM. At Yoshida Shrine, you can also purchase special charms (Omamori) and unique festival goods, which are perfect souvenirs for wishing for health and protection.

Clothing & Etiquette

• *Clothing**: As this is an outdoor night event involving fire and sparks, please wear comfortable clothing suitable for safety and movement.
• *Payment**: Please prepare cash to purchase special charms or goods at Yoshida Shrine. Please check the official website for details.
• *Reservations**: We recommend checking the official website in advance regarding the availability of special viewing-seats.