Yamashiro Onsen [Ishikawa]
Shobu-yu Matsuri (Iris Festival)
| Places | Yamashiro Onsen, Kaga-shi, Ishikawa |
|---|---|
| Dates | 04/06/2007 - 05/06/2007 |
| Access |
The literal meaning of Shobu-yu is "irises in hot water." People in this region believe that the powerful fragrance of the iris wards off evil. The Shobu-yu Matsuri is a festival which celebrates this custom. Portable shrines loaded with straw bags which have been stuffed with irises are made at Yamashiro Spa, in Ishikawa Prefecture. These portable shrines are carried around by approximately 200 young people. The violent movement of the portable shrines causes the straw bags to split open. The irises, of course, fall to the ground. Finally, the young people throw the irises into hot water as they beat pairs of wooden clappers together. Shobu-yu Matsuri Festivals are held during the same time in other hot-springs areas nearby.
