A Celebration of the Autumn Harvest in Japan
Japan’s four seasons are celebrated with various festivals, each reflecting the beauty and traditions of that time of year. Autumn is a particularly important season, marking the harvest period. Across the country, autumn festivals are held to express gratitude to “Ta no Kami,” the deities who protect rice fields and ensure a bountiful harvest.
During these festivals, offerings called shinsen (foods made from freshly harvested rice) and shinzake (sacred sake) are presented to the gods. These rituals symbolize gratitude to nature and highlight the bonds within the community.
Shinminato Hikiyama Festival: A Local Autumn Celebration
One notable autumn festival is the “Shinminato Hikiyama Festival,” held in Imizu City, Toyama Prefecture, the hometown of Chef Takeda’s partner. It is the autumn grand festival of Housouzu Hachiman Shrine and is recognized as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. This festival celebrates the harvest with 13 hikiyama (floats), the largest number in the prefecture.
During the day, these floats are decorated as “Hanayama” with vivid floral designs, and at night, they become “Chochinyama” with lanterns that light up the streets. While the exact origin is unclear, the oldest float, “Koshinmachi’s Ichiban Yama,” dates back to 1650.
A highlight is the dynamic procession of the 13 hikiyama through the streets, accompanied by chants of “Iyasaa, Iyasaa.” The sight of the floats turning sharply on narrow streets is a breathtaking experience.
Personal Connection: Chef Takeda’s Partner as a Shrine Maiden
Chef Takeda’s partner has a personal connection to this festival, having served as a miko (shrine maiden) at Housouzu Hachiman Shrine in her youth. As a miko, she performed sacred dances and assisted in rituals, which deepened her bond with the local traditions.
Autumn festivals like the Shinminato Hikiyama Festival are a wonderful way to experience Japan’s culture and seasonal beauty. These events offer a unique chance to connect with the local community and appreciate Japan’s rich heritage. We hope you can create your own memorable experiences by participating in these traditional celebrations.
