The Shrine’s Most Significant Event
Date: October 1st to 3rd
Located on the historic Nawate Street, Yohashira Shrine where the ‘Butai Shinto’ Festival is host was built during the Meiji Period (1868-1912) and is dedicated to four Shinto deities—a rare feature in Japan. Due to the presence of multiple deities, many Japanese believe the shrine has special wish-granting properties.
Yohashira Shrine is an important site for locals, holding many festivals throughout the year. Children’s Day, celebrated on May 5th, is an especially significant event, with families visiting to pray for their children’s well-being.
Every year from October 1st to 3rd, Yohashira Shrine hosts the “Butai Shinto” Festival, its most notable event. During this festival, rituals and ceremonies are performed to honor the gods and show gratitude for the year’s blessings.
The Yohashira Shrine ‘Butai Shinto’ Festival includes traditional elements such as mikoshi (portable shrine) processions, where the shrine’s divine spirits are symbolically carried through the main streets of Matsumoto. The event is often accompanied by Japanese drumming (taiko) and theatrical performances based on Japanese folklore.
Many street food stalls (yatai) line Nawate Street and the riverside, offering a variety of festival foods. Children can also enjoy games and activities such as goldfish scooping, water ball fishing, ring toss, and shooting games.
On the final night of the Yohashira Shrine ‘Butai Shinto’ Festival, visitors can enjoy a beautiful fireworks display along the river.
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