Among Japan's rich culture and beautiful scenery, the "Warai Matsuri" (Laughter Festival), held every October in Hidakagawa Town, Wakayama Prefecture, offers a particularly unique experience. This festival truly deserves to be called a "strange festival," as it embodies Japan's profound history, the simple religious faith of its people, and above all, the power of smiles. In this article, we'll provide you with plenty of information to pique your curiosity, from the surprising origins of the Laughter Festival to the festival's passionate atmosphere and the exquisite cuisine that Wakayama is proud of. Let's go on a journey together to discover Japan's hidden charms!

The surprising origin of the strange "Laughter Festival": The story of a villager who made the gods smile

The Laughing Festival, officially known as the "Niusai," is a traditional festival that has been held at Niusai Shrine in Hidakagawa Town since the Edo period. The reason this festival has come to be known by its unique name, the "Laughing Festival," is because of a heartwarming story that originates from Japanese mythology.

The Sorrow of Niutsuhime-no-Mikoto

One of the enshrined deities, Niutsuhime-no-mikoto, is an important goddess who rules over agriculture and water. Legend has it that in ancient times, in the month of Kannazuki, or October, all of Japan's eight million gods would gather in Izumo Province (present-day Shimane Prefecture) to hold a conference. Niutsuhime-no-mikoto was scheduled to attend the conference, but unfortunately overslept the morning of the day and was unable to attend. This caused the goddess to become deeply depressed and depressed.

Chants of "Laugh, laugh!"

Seeing the goddess's sad state, the villagers thought of a way to cheer her up. They called out, "Laugh, laugh!" and comforted and encouraged her with cheerful laughter. Thanks to this kind action by the villagers, Niutsuhime-no-Mikoto regained her smile and was able to safely head to Izumo. From this myth, the belief that "laughter can ward off evil spirits and bring about a bountiful harvest" took root in this area, and this Laughter Festival has been passed down to the present day. The power of a smile to blow away gloomy moods also has an effect on the gods, making this a truly unique and positive festival that is typical of Japan.

Experience the parade of laughter! Highlights of the festival and tips for participating

The Laugh Festival is held every year on the Sunday immediately before Sports Day. The highlight of the festival is the lively procession that travels approximately 1.5 km from the Otabisho shrine to Nyu Shrine.

The protagonists in unusual costumes

At the center of the festival is the "Suzufuri" (bell ringer), who wears colorful makeup. As he shakes his hips, he tries to make the people laugh with a unique call: "Eraksha, laugh, laugh!" It is a phrase that expresses joy, with the meaning of "Eiraku" or "The night is comfortable." Following the bell ringer are people called "Masumochi" (measure holders). They hold isshomasu (approximately 1.8 liter boxes) filled with new straw, and stuffed with vegetables such as mandarin oranges and eggplants, as well as ears of rice, from that year's harvest. They raise the masu and laugh at the top of their lungs in time with the bell ringer's song.

You too can join in the laughter

The greatest feature of this festival is that you, as a spectator, also become a participant. Bell-ringers and wooden box bearers call out to each passerby, "Laugh, laugh!", while scattering sweets. Drawn in by their laughter, spectators naturally become engulfed in the laughter as well. Don't be shy, laugh your heart out! This open atmosphere, which sets it apart from Japan's quiet and solemn festivals, is sure to become an unforgettable memory of your trip. Smile and open your heart, and you may just discover wonderful interactions with the people of Japan.

Enjoy the festival along with Wakayama's exquisite gourmet food

After laughing to your heart's content at the Laugh Festival, recharge your energy with some of Wakayama Prefecture's delicious cuisine. Wakayama is a land rich in nature, surrounded by the sea and mountains, and has a unique food culture.

Seafood: Fresh whitebait

The coastal areas of Wakayama, especially Kishu, are famous for their fresh shirasu. Shirasu are young sardines, and are served boiled in a pot as "kamaage shirasu" or sun-dried as "chirimenjako," making them the perfect accompaniment to rice or a snack. In particular, freshly caught shirasu, eaten raw, has an exceptional melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweetness. Freshness is key, so be sure to try it locally.

Mountain delicacies: Kishu's "pickled plums" and local cuisine

When you think of Wakayama, you think of Kishu Nankou plums. These large plums with soft flesh are known as the most luxurious pickled plums in Japan. They come in a variety of varieties, from salty to sweet ones pickled in honey, and are an essential part of Japanese food culture. Wakayama's local cuisine also includes chagayu, which is rice porridge cooked with tea leaves, and Kinzanji miso, a fermented food made by pickling vegetables and fish. These dishes have a simple yet deep flavor, allowing you to experience the traditional Japanese diet.

Specialties: Mandarin oranges and Wakayama ramen

Wakayama, with its warm climate, is also famous for its mandarin oranges, and from autumn to winter in particular, there is an abundance of sweet and delicious mandarin oranges on the market.

Additionally, you must try Wakayama Ramen, which has evolved uniquely in Wakayama city and the surrounding areas.

It features a rich pork bone and soy sauce-based soup, and is often called "Chuka Soba" by locals. After the festival, sipping a bowl of hot ramen is sure to satisfy both body and soul.

"What is the local B-class gourmet food "Wakayama Ramen"? Introducing its characteristics and history!" Please also check this out ▼▼

Access to Laugh Festival and travel tips

Hidakagawa Town, where the Laugh Festival is held, is located in central Wakayama Prefecture. To enjoy Japan's regional festivals, it is important to check the access route in advance.

Access to the venue

The nearest station to the Laugh Festival is Wasa Station on the JR Kinokuni Line (Kisei Main Line). • Access from major cities: Take an express train from Osaka (Tennoji or Shin-Osaka) and change to a local train at Gobo Station. • Travel from Wasa Station: From Wasa Station to Nyu Shrine, it's about a 40-minute walk or you can take a taxi. As it's a regional station, there may not be many taxis available, so it's best to check in advance. • By car: It's relatively close, about 5 minutes from Gobo IC on the Yuasa-Gobo Road. There is generally no parking, but it's a good idea to check in advance for information on temporary parking in the area.

Location of Wakayama

Tips for enjoying your trip

1. Prepare to laugh: The main attraction of the festival is laughter. Don't be shy, and be prepared to laugh out loud. That's the key to enjoying this festival to the fullest.

2. Accommodation: Accommodations around Hidakagawa Town may be crowded on the day of your trip. Consider lodgings a little further away, such as in Wakayama City or Shirahama Onsen, and make your reservations early.

3. Manners: At Japanese festivals, it is standard to take your trash home with you. Also, please be respectful of local culture and manners, such as remaining quiet on shrine grounds.

summary

Wakayama Prefecture's Laughter Festival is a unique event that has historical roots in Japanese mythology, but is themed around the universal emotion of laughter. This trip, where you can experience delicious cuisine, beautiful nature, and above all, the warmth of the people, is sure to further enrich your experience in Japan. So, why not come to Wakayama next October and experience the charm of Japan while laughing from your heart?

"Laughter Festival Official Website" Hidakagawa Town Tourism Association https://hidakagawa-kanko.jp/miru/nyuujinnja/

*This is only a plan recommended by the editorial department. Please check the actual traffic conditions yourself.