Experience the traditions of the Okihiki Festival of Ise Grand Shrine (Ise Jingū), in Ise, Mie Prefecture, in this special hands-on workshop led by Kawanishi Masahiko of Miyachu.
The Okihiki Festival forms part of Shikinen Sengū, the grand renewal of Ise Jingū, Japan’s most important Shinto shrine, which takes place once every 20 years. Ongoing for more than 1,300 years, the renewal cycle involves the complete rebuilding of the shrine’s buildings and the recreation of over 1,500 sacred treasures and garments.
During the lively Okihiki Festival, thousands of local residents and supporters from across Japan come together to ceremonially transport the large hinoki cypress timbers used in the rebuilding of the shrine.
Following an introduction to the history and significance of the festival, participants make zai, signalling batons used to direct and coordinate Okihiki processions, using wooden sticks and washi paper, and learn to sing kiyari uta, the powerful and rhythmic work songs chanted throughout the festival.
This event forms part of a wider programme presented in collaboration with Ise City, including a talk on the historical significance of Shikinen Sengū on Friday 6 November and a talk on Shinto craftsmanship on Saturday 7 November.
The event series is presented as part of the Spotlight on Local Japan Programme, organized in collaboration with Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), which accepts applications from potential collaborators based in Japan to co-create cultural events presenting Japan’s regional diversity at Japan House London
Tickets for the event are non-refundable. Please read our Terms and Conditions for Event Tickets before purchasing your ticket.
Please note that filming and photography may take place at this event. Photos and footage of the event may then be used to promote Japan House London, helping more people to discover what we offer. If you have any concerns, please contact us online or contact a member of the team on site.
About the speaker
Kawanishi Masahiko
Kawanishi Masahiko is a shime-nawa (sacred straw rope) artisan based in Ise, where he works at Miyachu, a renowned maker of kami–dana (household shrines) and shingu (Shinto ritual implements). In addition to crafting shime-nawa, he is committed to training future artisans and ensuring that the skills and cultural traditions associated with shime-nawa making are passed on to future generations. He is also an active member of his local Okihiki group, where he leads the kiyari work songs performed during community events and festivals.
Supported by 3 supporters.
