Ogata Sanja Kawagoe Shimatsuri was held
On December 6, 2025, the Ogata Sanja Kawagoe Shimatsuri took place around Harajiri Falls in Ogata Town, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture.
The Kawagoe Shimatsuri is an annual festival when the deities of the three Ogata shrines (Ichinomiya, Ninomiya, and Sannomiya) come together.
The portable shrine from Ichinomiya Shrine and the portable shrine from Sannomiya Shrine gather at Ninomiya Shrine.
The event was shortened from two days to one this year. Despite challenges such as a shortage of people to carry the mikoshi, the organizers’ determination to keep the festival alive has preserved the tradition.
At night, young men wearing traditional loincloths carry the Sannomiya mikoshi through the cold river, guided by torchlight. Their calls of “Essa hoisa” echo as they pass through the torii above the falls and wade across the river, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

■■■ Access from Fukuoka Prefecture, Kumamoto Prefecture and other areas to central Bungoono City ■■■
About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture
About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture
About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture
About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture

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Kyushu, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture
Introducing sightseeing and recommended spots
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