Shima Onsen has a really long history
There are few theories about the legendary story of Shima Onsen beginning.
The oldest theory is in 782-806AD.
According to the history book edited in 1977, Sakanoue Tamuramaro who came to conquer the Ezo as ‘the Great General who subdues the barbarians’ stayed this place in 782-806AD at the first time.
If this theory is true, Shima Onsen has more than 1,200 years of history!!
To protect historical tradition we’ve been taken over from generation to generation, there are some festivals held in Shima Onsen annually. Each festivals have meanings and purpose.
Additionally, there are plenty of attractiveness of Shima Onsen in each months, not only festival, but also the seasonal nature scene.
Let’s see what event we can experience in Shima Onsen!
Events in January
Torioi-matsuri (鳥追い祭り), Dondo-yaki (どんど焼き)
January 14
Torioi-matsuri is held on January 14.
This festival started in 1600s. It is held to drive away harmful birds and pests to protect crops with a prayer.
During this festival, locals pull two big drums like this picture, and walk around the onsen town.
Dondo-yaki is held on the same day as Torioi-matsuri.
This festival is a kind of a fire festival, and you can find everywhere in Japan.
It is traditional Japanese festival to burn New Year’s decorations.
The porpose is to get rid of bad luck, for good health, for good harvest, and to see off Shinto Gods.
Please visit the below link for more information!
Shima Onsen Yudate-sai (四万温泉湯立祭)
January 20 (the coldest day of the year)
Yudate-sai is held on January 20 at the coldest day of the year (大寒の日).
This festival is held to be thankful for onsen, and shrine maiden sprinkles hot spring water. People say, if you get wet with this spring water, you will be healthy and safe.
As Omotenashi, they serve onsen manju (sweet bun), pork miso soup and so on.
It’s really cold to go outside in January, but it’s worth it.
Events in February and March
Mayahime-matsuri (Princess Maya Festival)
From mid-February to mid-March
In Japan, there is a traditional festival called “Hina-matsuri” to wish happiness for little girls.
In Shima Onsen, we call it “Mayahime-matsuri,” because of the “Mayahime legend” at Shima Onsen.
During this festival, Ryokan and shops in Shima Onsen are decorated with Tsurushibina (mobile dolls) and Hina dolls like this photo.
If you would like to know more, please visit the below link to read another article!
Events in April, May, June
Cherry blossoms
Around mid-April to early May
There is no particular festival in this season, but this is the best season to see Shima Blue, and fresh greenery!
Must see in April is cherry blossoms.
The contrast of Shima Blue and pink color of cherry blossoms are spectacular!!
You can find the details from the link below.
Fresh greenery and Shima Blue
In April, May, June
In Spring, you can find the most beautiful Shima blue color compared to other seasons.
What is “Shima Blue”?
Shima Blue is amazing blue color that can be seen only here.
We recommend you to just walk around the river or Okushima lake and enjoy shima blue and fresh greenery!
Comments