Mishima Shrine Grand Festival - Hamaorisai

The spirited procession of two large mikoshi and six neighborhood mikoshi is the greatest attraction. The moment mikoshi enter the sea for purification during the Hamaorisai is thrilling. The festival parade from Suka Port to the shrine is also spectacular, offering the lively atmosphere characteristic of a fishing town.

Founded in the Heian period when the deity was invited from Oyamazumi Shrine on Omishima Island in Iyo Province. In the Edo period, it served as a starting point for Oyama pilgrimages by sea, and the town prospered so greatly it was called 'Suka Senken' (Suka of a Thousand Houses). The festival has been passed down for over 300 years.

The 'Suka no Matsuri' at Mishima Shrine in Hiratsuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a historic festival with over 300 years of history dating to the Edo period. Mishima Shrine was founded in the Heian period when the deity was invited from Oyamazumi Shrine on Omishima Island. In the Edo period, travelers from Izu and Awa disembarked at Suka Port for Oyama pilgrimages and prayed for safe travel at this shrine. The town was once so prosperous it was called 'Suka Senken,' and the festival lasted 7 to 12 days, earning it the names 'Suka no Tsuiri Matsuri' and 'Suka no Naga Matsuri.' During the Hamaorisai, neighborhood mikoshi enter the sea at Hiratsuka Beach for purification, praying for epidemic prevention, bountiful fishing, and community peace.

About a 20-minute walk from the south exit of JR Tokaido Line Hiratsuka Station toward Suka, or take a bus. The Hamaorisai at Hiratsuka Beach can be viewed from along the coast.

As a community-centered festival, it does not get as crowded as the Chigasaki Hamaorisai, but the mikoshi procession route does get busy. At the beach, you can find relatively spacious viewing spots if you choose your position.

Sand-friendly footwear and sun protection are necessary for beach viewing. Water may splash when mikoshi enter the sea, so waterproofing your camera is recommended.