A parade to deliver fresh “hamo” pike conger eels as an offering to Yasaka Shrine in the ancient Japanese capital of Kyoto has been held as the shrine hosts the month-long annual Gion Festival.
The fish is known as a seasonal delicacy that is enjoyed in the western Japanese city. The tourist association of Awaji Island in nearby Hyogo Prefecture, which is home to the fish, has organized the procession around this time every year.
The event was inspired by an ancient tradition in which marine products from the island in the Seto Inland Sea were presented to the Imperial Court.
About 80 people, including officials of the tourist association, took part in the parade on Wednesday, carrying a tub that contained three pike conger eels.
After the fish were offered to Shinto deities of the shrine, the participants prayed before the altar and attended a purification ceremony.
Visitors to the shrine were treated to a dish featuring the fish.
The tourist association said spike conger eels grew well this year. The head of the association, Kinoshita Manabu, said he is relieved that they could offer the fish to the shrine without problems, adding that he was reminded of the close link between Kyoto and Awaji Island. He said he hopes people will enjoy the fish and beat the summer heat.
AloJapan.com