Ise Folk Events

Kiyari-3Ise City

Since ancient times, events held at Ise Jingu have been performed by emperors to pray for a bountiful harvest, national security, and peace in Japan.

Omita Festival-1Ise City

One of the few opportunities for citizens to participate in these events is the okihiki, which is held every 20 years for two years on the occasion of the shikinen sengu, the annual relocation of the shrine.

Kiyari-8Ise City

The Ise-Kiyari-uta

The Ise-kiyari-uta is sung at the time of the "okihiki". It is also sung as a festive song on the occasion of Shinto rituals. It is said to be the original form of "Ise Ondo".

Omita Festival-4Ise City

Omita Festival

One of the most elegant festivals in Ise is the Omita Festival, held at Sarutahiko Shrine. People wearing Momoyama-era folk costumes plant seedlings accompanied by relaxing dengaku (rice field music) during this ceremony. 

Omita Festival-6Ise City

Omita Festival

As soon as the rice planting is completed, the people perform the Honen Odori dance to pray for a bountiful harvest in the temple's front yard.

Omita Festival-6, From the collection of: Ise City
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Omita Festival-7, From the collection of: Ise City
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Omita Festival

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