Overview
Iwashimizu Sai (Iwashimizu Festival) is Reisai, the most important ritual event of a shrine, Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine in this case.
Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine is quite important in Shinto because it is one of Chokusaisha where an imperial envoy Chokushi performs rituals.
During elaborate rituals, fish are released into the shrine pond and the nearby Hojo River and young children perform a “butterfly dance” on the Angobashi Bridge.
Video
History
The shrine’s connections with the Imperial family date from its founding in 859. It is said that Emperor Seiwa ordered the shrine to be built in obeisance to an oracle in which the god Hachiman expressed the desire to be near to Kyoto to watch over the city and the Imperial House of Japan.
Religious Background
Shintou
Image
Date
September 15th
Dates and functions are subject to change without notice. Be sure to check the latest information in advance.
Location
Yawata City, Kyoto Prefecture
More information
http://www.iwashimizu.or.jp/other/image/english/map_english_20161020.pdf