Guida
Oiso no Sagicho is a traditional fire festival held every year on January 17th in Oiso Town, Naka District, Kanagawa Prefecture. This festival is designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, preserving the authentic forms of traditional Japanese rituals. The most striking feature is the nine massive, conical structures called "Saito" erected along the Oiso Kitahama Coast. The moment the fire is ignited simultaneously in the dark of night, the sight of 7 to 8-meter-high fire pillars rising and turning the entire coastline a fiery red is an overwhelming and awe-inspiring spectacle.
The origins of this festival are rooted in legends surrounding "Seenokamisan" (the deity of the road). Legend has it that an evil spirit known as "Mehitotsu Kozo" (the One-Eyed Boy) used to wander the area recording people's deeds. As dawn approached, the spirit hurriedly handed the records to Seenokamisan. The deity then burned the records, which is said to be the origin of this fire festival. Also known as "Seetobaree" or "Dondoyaki," it is a deeply cherished ritual that remains a vital part of the local history.
The greatest highlight begins around 18:30 with the "Simultaneous Ignition." As the fire is lit in the nine massive Saito structures built by the local communities, the bamboo poles crackle and pop loudly, and the fire pillars soar high into the sky, symbolically driving away evil spirits. Before the ignition, a ritual called "Yannagokko" takes place. Men dressed in traditional fundoshi loincloths pull sleds carrying small shrines through the cold sea in an energetic and intense display. Additionally, there is a tradition of eating dumplings roasted over the fire, which is said to prevent catching a cold for the entire year.
Oiso no Sagicho is a winter event held specifically on the night of January 17th. The most critical time to arrive is around 18:30, just before the ignition begins. We recommend arriving at the coast as the sun sets so you can witness the exact moment the fire pillars rise. Since it is held during a very cold period, heavy winter clothing is essential for viewing the event on the coast.
Spectators can witness the massive fire pillars rising from the shore and the intense rituals in the sea from a close distance. You can also experience the traditional culture of eating "Dango" (dumplings) roasted by the heat of the fire. These activities offer a rare opportunity to directly experience the traditional social rituals of Japanese local communities.
The area around Oiso Kitahama Coast, where the venue is located, features historical sites such as the former residence of the famous writer Toson Shimazaki. You can enjoy a stroll through the historic streets of Oiso, which once served as a post town, before or after the festival. Please note that the area becomes extremely crowded on the day of the festival, so please allow plenty of time for travel.