Dec 7, 2016

Chinka-sai MIYAJIMA

KONNICHIWA from Hiroshima Hanahostel, This is Kana here.
I just can't believe that it is already in December and we will have new year in less than a month...Time flies... There are many exciting events in December such as X'mas, New year Eve and so on.
What is your plan for that?? Hope all of you will have great holiday.

To whom considering to visit Japan for the new year eve, why don't you go to MIYAJIMA which is one of world heritage in Hiroshima.
CHINKA-SAI

Date:December 31st18:00 (6:00pm)


Chinka-sai is Fire Prevention Festival, takes place on the last day of the year in front of Itsukushima Shrine.

Local people make both large and small pine torches throughout the month of December. 
On the evening of the 31st, as twilight falls, families gather at the shore near the O-torii(Grand gate).

 One huge torch is carried from the Shrine and all of the other torches, including individual pine torches are lit. 
The larger pine torch is carried by around 40 men on their shoulder's, while children carry smaller ones. 
As the torches intensely burn the coastline become a combination of fire and water as the people run about chanting "Yoi, Yoi."  You should say it out in a loud voice with them too!
 It must be great fun! Just be like a local people!!

After the festival, the embers from the torches are offered to family alters as a good luck charm to prevent fire and to welcome the New Year. You might be able to get it too!! The thing is you CAN bring it back your country or NOT...

To Miyajima is only 25minutes from Hiroshima station and another 10 minutes by ferry, EASY access from Hana hostel!

I hope the New Year finds you in excellent spirit!

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