Luxurious Hikiyama floats lined up
The Hino Festival, which is said to have a history of over 800 years, has begun. On May 2nd, there is Yoimiya (eve of a festival vigil) and on May 3rd, 16 Hikiyama floats parade through the streets to the main shrine. I went to watch the Yoimiya in the afternoon of May 2nd. Hino Town is located at around the central of Shiga Prefecture, Japan. This festival has been designated Intangible Folk Cultural Properties by Shiga Prefecture. From dusk, Hikiyama floats belonging to each neighborhood association were towed from the storage to the near-by roads. And their accessory lanterns were lit up, creating a historical and majestic atmosphere. Participants play the Shinobue (a traditional transverse flute made of thin bamboo) and sound the traditional drums to liven up the atmosphere until late at night. They wear the Happi coats (a traditional uniform for Japanese festival) and alcoholics could be served. Many people in the neighborhood came with their families. I wish I could watch it mor
