Pray for the prosperity of the community at the Kiriko Festival
Introduction:
The Noto Kiriko festivals in Ishikawa’s Noto Peninsula are a sight to behold. These spectacular festivals take place from July through September, sweeping across towns and cities. The festivals are known for their large, meticulously decorated lantern floats, vibrant parades of lanterns and portable shrines, and the fiery climax that marks the end of the festivities. The Kiriko Festival holds deep cultural and traditional significance in the region, with communities coming together to pray for prosperity and ward off misfortunes. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of the Kiriko Festival, including its origins, traditions, and how to experience the festival firsthand. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant and enchanting world of the Noto Kiriko festivals.
I. The Beauty of the Kiriko Festivals
A. The Intricately Designed Floats:
One of the highlights of the Kiriko festivals is the beautifully designed lantern floats. These floats, also known as kiriko toro, come in various sizes and are adorned with intricate carvings and gold leaf decorations. The smaller floats are carried by children, while the larger ones, reaching up to 15 meters tall, are carried by young adults. The lanterns on the floats are painted with traditional Japanese characters and illustrations, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. In recent times, the lanterns have also been decorated with images of popular anime characters, blending tradition with modernity.
B. Lively Parades of Lanterns and Portable Shrines:
During the Kiriko festivals, the towns and cities of the Noto Peninsula come alive with vibrant parades. These parades feature both lantern floats and portable shrines, known as mikoshi. Festival-goers gather on the streets, chanting, dancing, and making merry as the floats and shrines pass by. The energy and enthusiasm of the participants create an electrifying atmosphere, immersing everyone in the festive spirit. The parades are a visual feast, with the lanterns illuminating the night sky and the sounds of drums and flutes adding to the excitement.
C. The Fiery Climax:
The climax of the Kiriko Festival is a breathtaking sight to behold. After the parades, the lantern floats are set ablaze, symbolizing the burning away of people’s troubles and misfortunes. The floats become engulfed in flames, and sparks fly, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The fiery finale marks the end of the festivities, leaving a lasting impression on all who witness it.
II. How to Get There
To experience the Kiriko Festival, one must travel to the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa. The main transport hub in the region is Kanazawa, which is well-connected by trains and buses. From Kanazawa, one can easily reach the various towns and cities where the festivals are held. The peninsula is also an ideal driving destination, with light traffic and scenic coastal roads. For those traveling by rail, the JR Nanao Line offers convenient access to the peninsula, with the journey to Wakura Onsen taking approximately an hour. Additionally, Hokutetsu express buses operate from Kanazawa to Wajima, the northern tip of the peninsula, with a journey time of a little over two hours. Visitors flying into Tokyo can take direct flights to Noto Airport, located in the center of the peninsula, and from there, rent a car or catch a bus to Wajima or Anamizu.
III. Origins of the Festival
The Noto Kiriko festivals have a rich history that dates back to the late 17th century. The festivals were initially held as a means to ward off epidemics and other illnesses and to pray for good harvests. Each community in the Noto Peninsula builds its own floats, with the sacred lanterns as the focal point. The floats are paraded through the towns’ central areas from dusk, accompanied by lively processions of festival-goers. The traditions and customs associated with the Kiriko festivals have been passed down through generations, preserving the cultural heritage of the region.
IV. Different Traditions and Customs
While the Kiriko festivals share common elements, each town and city in the Noto Peninsula has its own unique traditions and customs. Some festivals feature wild and energetic dancing, while others culminate with the floats being carried into the sea as fireworks light up the sky. In some towns, teams of women take on the responsibility of carrying the floats, adding a touch of femininity to the festivities. This diversity of traditions adds to the richness and variety of the Kiriko festivals, making each experience unique and captivating.
V. Notable Festivals and Events
1. Abare Festival in Ushitsu:
The Abare Festival in the town of Ushitsu is one of the most enthralling Kiriko festivals. It marks the beginning of the festival season and is held on the first Friday and Saturday of July. The festival gets its name from the Japanese word “abare,” which means “fire and violence.” During the festival, both portable shrines and lantern floats are paraded around the town, accompanied by large bonfires. Children sit on the upper decks of the wooden kiriko floats, playing drums and flutes, adding to the lively atmosphere. The highlight of the festival is the second night, when teams of half-naked men thrash the mikoshi shrines against the ground, drag them through rivers, and toss them into fires. The festival reaches its climax as the lantern floats are set ablaze, creating a fiery spectacle that captivates all who witness it.
VI. Experiencing the Kiriko Festival
1. Attending the Festivals:
If you have the opportunity to visit the Noto Peninsula during the Kiriko Festival season, attending the festivals is a must. Each festival offers a unique experience, with its own customs and traditions. From the intricately designed lantern floats to the vibrant parades and the fiery finale, every aspect of the festival is a feast for the senses. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, join the locals in chanting and dancing, and witness the beauty and cultural significance of the Kiriko festivals firsthand.
2. Visit the Wajima Kiriko Hall:
If you are unable to attend the festivals, a visit to the Wajima Kiriko Hall is highly recommended. Located in Wajima City, close to the Wajima Morning Fish Market, the hall showcases preserved floats from previous festivals. Here, you can get an up-close look at the intricately decorated floats and learn more about the history and significance of the Kiriko festivals. The Wajima Kiriko Hall provides a glimpse into the vibrant world of the Noto Kiriko festivals, allowing you to appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry that goes into creating these magnificent lantern floats.
Conclusion:
The Kiriko Festival in Ishikawa’s Noto Peninsula is a celebration of culture, tradition, and community spirit. The festivals bring together people from all walks of life, uniting them in prayer for prosperity and the burning away of troubles and misfortunes. The beautifully designed lantern floats, lively parades, and fiery climax create an enchanting atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on all who witness it. Whether you attend the festivals or visit the Wajima Kiriko Hall, experiencing the Kiriko Festival is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Noto Peninsula. So, make sure to add the Kiriko Festival to your travel itinerary and witness the magic and beauty of this unique Japanese tradition.
Address And Maps Location:
6-1 Marine Town, Wajima-shi, Ishikawa-ken
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