Misono's Hana Matsuri is classified as an Oonyuu strain and it has some unique features. For example, the taiko (Japanese drum) player hits the drum in a jumping movement and the dancers widely open their hands and stand on one leg like a crane. The elders transferred these unique styles to the younger generations. Please watch the differences of the Hana Matsuri among the villages in Toei.

We will serve a cup of vegetable soup and pickles for all visitors and guests. We will also present everyone with a wooden tray in appreciation of your participation and contribution.


Information
Misono Hana Matsuri conservation group representative:
Akira Shimizu

TEl. : (81) 536-76-0283

Ahikome village's Hana Matsuri is held on the fourth weekend in November. The festival has 700 years of history, so please visit it. We will serve, "Kenchin jiru" (traditional vegetable soup) and sake for the all visitors and guests. You can eat and drink freely.

The forementioned three masks, Sakaki Oni (red), Yamami Oni (blue), Mokichi Oni (brown), are the main characters of the festival. Sakaki Oni performs, "The Henbai" dance, and prays to the eight millions gods to bring good harvest and good health.

The Yamami Oni breaks the mountain and endows a holy ceremony to purify our lives.

The Mokichi Oni hits and brings down the beehive with his beetle, a mesh shaped bag made from coloured (5) paper. The paper bag is hung above the iron pot which is in the middle of the dancing ground. The hosts of the festival put many coins in the paper bag. People believe that if they pick up a coin, it will bring them good fortune.

We will give each guest a Japanese mug with an illustration of the Hana Matsuri in appreciation of your participation and contribution.


Information
Ashikome Hana Matsuri conservation group representative:
Yoshio Shibata

TEl. : (81) 536-76-1432

Higashisonome's Hana Matsuri has a special feature. The Japanese taiko performance group, "Shidara" plays with the village people. Thus, many fans come to the festival and bust out their drumming skills. We have limited parking for cars, so please car pool with your friends to Higashisonome.


Information
Higashisonome Hana Matsuri conservation group representative:
Atusto Oono

TEl. : (81) 536-76-0887


The Japanese Taiko Performance Group "Shidara"

TEl. : (81) 536-76-1689 (Office)

2003/10/01 Update