[Fukushima, Fukushima] Waraji Festival [8/2 and 8/3 only] Paid viewing table seats,(4 ppl/table)

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55th Fukushima Waraji FestivalFriday, August 2, 2024Saturday, August 3, 2024Friday, August 2, 18:30-21:00 (scheduled) Paid seating availableNational Route 13 Shinobu Street - Station Street Waraji Dance, Large Waraji Parade, Original Waraji ParadeSaturday, August 3, 18:30-20:00 (scheduled) Paid seating availableNational Route 13 Shinobu Street - Station Street Waraji Dance, Large Waraji Parade, Original Waraji Parade, FinaleMount Shinobu, known for its utamakura (poorly-worn chanting), is located in the center of Fukushima City, and the three mountains of Gassan, Yudono, and Haguro are well known.The large waraji (12m long) of Haguro Shrine, located in the Shinobu Sanzan (Mount Shinobu), is said to be the best in Japan, and has been dedicated at the "Akatsuki Mairi" ceremony every February since ancient times in hopes of good walking. It is said that the origin of the large straw sandals was when the Niomon gate at Haguro Shrine was built and a pair of straw sandals made to fit the size of the Nio statues enshrined there were dedicated to the shrine. Later, people who were going on long journeys such as pilgrimages to Ise Shrine began to offer the sandals to pray for good health and a safe journey. In recent years, people have also prayed for good health, bountiful harvests, safety of the home, and prosperity in business. The "Akatsuki Mairi" festival held every February is a traditional festival that has been passed down for over 400 years since the Edo period, and a large straw sandal (currently only one pair) is dedicated to the shrine. The Fukushima Waraji Festival originated from the "Akatsuki Mairi" festival and is held every year from the first Friday to Sunday in August as a festival that protects the tradition of the largest straw sandals in Japan, promotes local consciousness, enjoys the short summer in Tohoku, and provides a place for citizens to relax. In addition, by donating a large pair of straw sandals (for one foot), which will combine with the large straw sandals donated at the "Akatsuki Mairi" to make one pair (for both feet), it also carries the meaning of praying for even stronger legs.