A Harvest Festival Quite Like Any Other
Introduction
In the quiet suburb of Komaki, a unique and extraordinary festival takes place every year. Known colloquially as the Honen Matsuri, this festival is unlike any other. Celebrated on March 15, the festival is held at the Tagata-jinja Shrine, which is believed to be over 1,000 years old. While it may be infamous for its nickname, the penis festival, Honen Matsuri is a risque, religious, and incredibly fun event that attracts both locals and tourists alike.
How to Get There
Tagata-jinja Shrine is located north of Nagoya City, and it can be easily accessed by train. From Meitetsu Nagoya Station, visitors can head to Inuyama and then transfer to the Meitetsu Komaki Line. Tagata-jinja is just a five-minute walk from Tagata-jinja-mae Station. The shrine is conveniently located, making it accessible for festival-goers from both near and far.
Risque, Religious, and a Lot of Fun
When attending Honen Matsuri, it is important to have a camera at hand as there are many unique sights to behold. The highlight of the festival is the two-meter-long wooden phallus that is carried through the streets. This phallus, carved from the trunk of a single cypress tree, is a symbol of fertility and good harvest. The shrine itself is filled with phallus-shaped stones and statues, and celebrants line up to rub them, offering prayers for a prosperous year ahead.
The festival officially starts at 10 a.m., giving visitors plenty of time to explore the festival site. Here, you can find various phallic souvenirs to surprise your friends and loved ones. Additionally, there are incredibly detailed phallus candies, cakes, cookies, and even chocolate-covered bananas available for purchase. These unique treats add to the festive atmosphere and are a must-try for adventurous foodies.
As the day progresses, the procession begins at around 2 p.m. During this time, free glasses of sake are handed out to festival-goers. Sake, a traditional Japanese rice wine, is an integral part of many cultural celebrations. Its inclusion in Honen Matsuri adds to the festive spirit and allows participants to indulge in the local traditions. The sight of the 400-kilogram wooden phallus being carried through the streets, and even spun around, is truly awe-inspiring.
If You Are in the Area
If you happen to be in the area during the time of Honen Matsuri, it is worth exploring the nearby Oagata Shrine as well. This shrine holds a harvest festival that celebrates female genitalia. The juxtaposition of the two festivals highlights the cultural significance of fertility and reproduction in Japanese society. Exploring both festivals gives visitors a deeper understanding of the local customs and traditions.
Aside from the festivals, Komaki has other attractions that are worth visiting. One such attraction is Komaki Castle. Although small in size, the castle holds great historical significance. It was originally built by Oda Nobunaga, one of japan‘s most famous samurai warriors. Later, it became the site of a standoff between Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu, two prominent figures in Japanese history. Visiting Komaki Castle allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history of the region.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Honen Matsuri in Komaki is a harvest festival quite like any other. While it may be known as the penis festival, it is important to recognize the religious and cultural significance of the event. The festival showcases the importance of fertility and good harvest in Japanese society. From the unique phallus-shaped souvenirs to the elaborate phallus-themed treats, the festival offers a truly unforgettable experience. Attending Honen Matsuri allows visitors to not only witness a one-of-a-kind event but also gain a deeper understanding of Japanese traditions and customs. So, if you find yourself in Komaki during the festival, make sure to join in the festivities and embrace the unique and vibrant atmosphere.
Address And Maps Location:
332-1 Komatsuji, Komaki-shi, Aichi-ken
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