Atsukishinmei Festival阿月神明祭

This festival is a solemn occasion that seeks protection from calamities, disease, and the blessings of a prosperous harvest. It is known as the "Fire Festival." Two towering pillars, each approximately 20 meters in height, are embellished with ornate decorations and sacred paper known as "Shinmei." These pillars are erected on the sandy shores, one on the eastern beach and one on the western beach. People gather around them to perform a ceremonial dance as an offering. As night descends, the flames are ignited, casting a mesmerizing glow. The decorations and sacred paper sourced from Shinmei are believed to act as protective talismans.

The dance is a pivotal part of the festivities and is performed twice, both during daylight and under the cover of night. In the nocturnal dance, women sway gracefully, adorned with straw hats, while men transform into characters from the Shinsengumi or the Akō ronin, dancing with great enthusiasm. Following the night dance, a tradition ensues where people roast and indulge in rice cakes and other delicacies over the fires kindled by Shinmei. This act is believed to bestow protection from illness upon those who partake.