Intangible Folk Cultural Properties Requiring Documentation of Shiga

Discover the Fire Festivals of Omi-Hachiman, a National Selected Intangible Folk Cultural Property in Shiga Prefecture. This guide covers the Sagicho Festival linked to Oda Nobunaga, the ancient Hachiman Torch Festival, and the rare Shinoda traditional fireworks, with history, highlights, and visitor information.

A spectacular folk tradition preserved for over 300 years in Higashiomi City, Shiga Prefecture. Giant kites equivalent to 100 tatami mats and weighing 700 kg are launched by teams of 150 people using unique techniques found nowhere else in Japan — the cutout method, long-roll method, and hanjimom pictorial wordplay. Designated a National Selected Intangible Folk Cultural Property in 1993.

Discover Ohana Odori, a nationally designated intangible folk cultural property performed every August 21st at Hiyoshi Shrine in Koura Town, Shiga Prefecture. Born from an ancient legend of a woman named Ohana and the Dragon God of Mount Oike, this spectacular rain-prayer dance features vigorous taiko drumming by young men and graceful movements by children in flower parasols.

Discover Kusatsu no Sanyare Odori, a vibrant folk dance tradition from Shiga Prefecture. Designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property and UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, this centuries-old festival brings seven communities together every May 3rd with colorful costumes, rhythmic drums, and chants of Sanyare meaning May blessings come.