You Should Visit a Shrine Festival in Japan. It’s An Amazing Spectacle! Ogionsaa Festival 2025!

The Ogionsaa (おぎおんさあ) Festival in Kagoshima is an energetic and traditional annual event with a history dating back to the Edo era. It’s primarily held to pray for protection from plague (epidemics) and thriving business.

The festival typically takes place over several days in mid-July, often including a “Yoimatsuri” (eve festival) and the main “Honmatsuri” (main festival) procession. The Yoimatsuri often features displays of mikoshi and floats, stage events with live music (like jazz and taiko drumming), and fair booths, setting an exciting atmosphere for the main day.

It’s a vibrant and lively event, filled with the sounds of traditional music, chants, and the energy of the participants. The entire Tenmonkan area becomes a pedestrian zone during the main parade, allowing spectators to fully immerse themselves in the festivities.

The Ogionsaa Festival is a cherished summer tradition in Kagoshima, offering a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage and community spirit.

Here’s why this summer festival in Kagoshima City is awesome:

-The festival’s core aim is to invoke divine protection against illness and ensure prosperity for businesses in the city.

-Thousands of people participate, with men dressed in traditional loincloths (fundoshi) and women in happi coats.

-The highlight is the lively parade, known as the “Goshinko Gyoretsu,” which weaves through the city’s main shopping and entertainment district, Tenmonkan (especially the tram street). This grand procession includes:

Portable Shrines (Mikoshi): Men and women carry elaborately decorated portable shrines, often chanting as they go.

Floats (Dashi): Traditional festival vehicles, often with musicians playing festive music in ancient costumes.

Children in Traditional Costumes: Young children participate, sometimes riding in special carts (“Chigokago”) or carrying small portable shrines.

“Kannyo” (Imperial Ladies): Beautifully dressed women representing imperial ladies.

“Sarutahiko”: A representation of the deity Sarutahiko, known for guiding gods.

Kasaboko: People carrying long bamboo poles with umbrellas decorated with intricate designs.

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Music:
Taiko Drumming from Kagoshima Festival Groups.
Frolic – E’s Jammy Jams

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