Home >> Event [Winter]
- Everyday : Onomichi 7-Temple Tour
Hiwatari Shinji (Ceremony of the Holy Flame)
Time : At the beginning of January every year.
"Saitougoma" is a main event of the Goma that has been held from the New Year's day. Branches and firewood of Japanese cypress are burned with holy [scented] wood.
After Saitougoma, Hiwatari Shinji is conducted. Holy men and visitors walk barefoot over hot embers and ashes while they pray for health, good fortune, peace in their homes, and prosperity in business.
The Oyumi Shinji Ritual of Archery
Time : At the beginning of January every year.
In 1441, Akamatsu Mitsusuke was defeated in war and escaped to Momoshima Island with his seven men.
The origin of this festival is based on their training of yumi archery for enabling them to attack and subjugate their enemy.
Fifteen shooters are selected from three districts of an island and they take turns shooting at a target that is 60cm away and 15m apart to the sound of a beating drum.
At the center of the target, a round object called "Gake" is set. If someone hits it, he will receive a highly valued 10 yen coin gift.
Sanba Tondo Festival
Time : At the middle of January every year.
The "Tondo" festival is a local event held in this area. It is held to send off the deities who came to visit during New Year's Day.
By burning New Year's decorations made of straw and bamboo, they can go back to heaven on the rising fire and smoke of this huge bonfire.
This Sanba Tondo has been held since Edo era. The originality of this is the figure of the Tondo. The decoration of the animal of the year is set on the top of the Tondo that is beautifully made of straw.
Setsubun Ceremony
Time : February 3rd every year.
Men who were born in the same year as the Chinese zodiac of the current year throw beans while shouting, "In with fortune! Out with evil!", and pray for good health and the safety of all the families throughout the year.
A Make-a-Face game that brings you good fortune is also held.
