Guida
The Mikumano Jinja Grand Festival is a highly significant traditional event held around the Mikumano Shrine in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka Prefecture. The greatest attraction is the parade of the massive 'Neri' floats, which are adorned with exquisite dolls and intricate carvings. Seeing 13 of these giant floats—standing about 6 meters tall and 2 meters wide—march through the historic castle town with their Edo-period elegance is a breathtaking sight. The atmosphere is further electrified by the 'Sansha Festival Music,' where the sounds of flutes, drums, and bells, accompanied by powerful rhythmic chants, pull the entire crowd into a whirlwind of excitement.
The history of Mikumano Shrine is ancient, rooted in a legend where Fujiwara no Miyako, the Empress of Emperor Bunmu, established the shrine to give thanks for a safe childbirth. The shrine has long been a center of faith for local residents. This grand festival specifically reflects the vibrant culture of the Edo period. Historically, Tadamasa Nishio, a high-ranking official of the Edo Shogunate, brought the excitement of the Kanda and Sanno festivals from Edo to this region, leading to the introduction of the current 'Yatai' (Neri) parades. Consequently, the festival serves as a precious cultural heritage that preserves the atmosphere of an Edo-era castle town. Furthermore, the Sansha Festival music and traditional dances like 'Jigome-mai' are designated as Intangible Folk Cultural Properties of Shizuoka Prefecture, carefully preserved by the community over many generations.
The highlight of the festival is undoubtedly the procession of the 13 'Neri' floats. Each float features its own unique theme and decorative figures, ensuring constant fascination for spectators. Another significant event is the 'Miko-daki' (Child-holding) ritual held on the second day. Since the deity of the shrine is a god of fertility and safe childbirth, this sacred ceremony involves participants joining the procession while carrying a sacred doll known as 'Onen-neko-sama.' This unique ritual draws many visitors from afar seeking blessings for fertility and easy childbirth. Beyond the visual splendor, the spiritual experience through music and sacred rites makes this festival truly unforgettable.
The Mikumano Jinja Grand Festival is held for three days, starting from the first Friday of April every year. As it takes place during the arrival of spring, the weather is ideal for strolling. During the day, you can enjoy the dynamic sight of colorful floats parading through the streets. As evening approaches, the atmosphere shifts into a unique, high-energy fervor as the entire town becomes one with the festival spirit. We recommend timing your visit to see the floats at their most magnificent or to witness the sacred rituals in person.
To truly enjoy this festival, it is important to feel the atmosphere rather than just watching. Listen closely to the energetic 'Shita! Shita!' chants that harmonize with the rhythm of the Sansha Festival music to feel the power of the tradition. For those interested in Japanese spiritual culture, observing the atmosphere of the sacred rituals involving the 'Onen-neko-sama' doll is a profound experience. Walking through the surrounding streets to find traces of the old Edo-period castle town architecture is another wonderful way to enjoy the local charm.
The area around the festival is dotted with historical landmarks. Within walking distance, you can visit the 'Yokosuka Castle Ruins' to deepen your understanding of the region's history. Additionally, about 20 minutes by car, you will find 'Kakegawa Castle,' one of the few remaining castles in Japan with an original wooden keep. Visiting these sites before or after the festival will enrich your historical journey through Shizuoka. Since Kakegawa is also famous for its high-quality 'Kakegawa Tea,' we recommend enjoying a cup of local green tea to savor the lingering excitement of the festival.