Search
Kanamaru Hachiman Shrine Yoimiya Shinto Ritual【October 14th】
On the evening of October 14, the night before the main Autumn Festival, a sacred ritual known as Yoi-miya (Evening Shrine Ceremony) takes place.
The ceremony begins with a long green bamboo pole being set up in front of the worship hall. Suspended from it is a circular sacred object called Onjiyaku, which serves as a symbolic vessel for the divine spirit. In the shrine’s courtyard, a ritual fire called Niwa-bi is lit, creating a sacred space. Through this light, it is believed that the deity descends into the Onjiyaku — a solemn moment of spiritual presence known as Kōshin (Descent of the Deity).
It is rare to find such a traditional form of autumn festival still practiced today, even within the prefecture, making this event a valuable cultural experience.
Another unique feature of the shrine is its Sacred Stone Array. Surrounding the shrine grounds are 387 upright stone slabs, each approximately 1 meter tall. These stones are made from greenish phyllite, a type of metamorphic rock that naturally splits into flat sheets. This natural form is preserved and beautifully arranged around the site, creating a powerful and sacred atmosphere.
Witness this rare blend of ancient ritual and sacred space—a timeless evening of spiritual heritage and cultural beauty.
| Address | 〒779-4703 徳島県三好郡東みよし町中庄1187 1187, Nakasho, Higashimiyoshi-cho, Miyoshi-gun, Tokushima 779-4703 |
|---|---|
| TEL | Lifelong Learning Department, the Town of Higashimiyoshi：0883-79-3217 |
| URL | https://www.town.higashimiyoshi.lg.jp/docs/863.html |
| Start time | October 14th Around 19：00～ |
| Precautions | This is a local small ritual. The parking lot is limited. |
