Isonomiya Hachiman Shrine’s Annual Fall Festival in Mid-September

Ever heard of Isonomiya Hachiman Shrine in Takehara City? You wouldn’t be the only one who hasn’t! This iconic tourist site is actually closer to Takehara Station than the Historic Preserved District that most tourists go to see. Most people overlook it year round, but this year, on the weekend of September 13-14th, the annual fall festival at Isonomiya Hachiman Shrine will take place. Conceived as an occasion to show gratitude to the gods for the abundant harvest of the five traditional grains, the festival is packed with enormous futon taiko drums, fierce demonic deities, tengu, both red and blue ogres, plus the beloved lion dance prancing through the streets of Takehara. If you can make it here in the autumn, mid-September is a period you won’t want to miss!