The “Oni-Oi” (Devil Chasing) is a traditional event held every year on January 7th at Kumano Shrine in the Fukagawa district of Sueyoshi Town, Soo City, Kagoshima Prefecture. It is a strange custom where three devils, considered to be benevolent spirits that bring good fortune and ward off evil, rampage through the shrine grounds, brandishing straw-braided stick-like “devil’s hands.”
What is Kumano Shrine Oni-Oi?
Kumano Shrine Oni-Oi is a traditional event praying for abundant harvests and good health. Three devils adorned with sacred paper strips (gohei) and “tsuke” (attendants) who control the devils walk through the shrine grounds. The devils are played by men in their 25th year, considered an unlucky year in Japanese tradition (yakudoshi), and they hit and chase people with their “devil’s hands.”
It is believed that being hit by a devil wards off bad luck, and the gathered people bravely approach the devils to try and snatch the sacred paper strips. The battle between the devils and the people is the highlight of Kumano Shrine Oni-Oi.
Highlights of Kumano Shrine Oni-Oi
- Appearance of the Devils: The powerful appearance of the devils is a must-see!
- Sacred Paper Strips (Gohei): The sacred paper strips carried by the devils are said to bring benefits of warding off evil and inviting good fortune.
- Devil’s Hands: Being hit by the “devil’s hands” made of braided straw is said to ward off bad luck.
- Strange Custom: Because it is a unique event unlike any other, it is also called a “strange custom” (kishu).
Basic Information about Kumano Shrine Oni-Oi
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Date | January 7th |
| Location | Kumano Shrine (Fukagawa, Sueyoshi-cho, Soo City, Kagoshima Prefecture) |
| Access | Approximately 10 minutes by car from JR Sueyoshi Station |
| Contact | Soo City Tourism Association (0986-76-4111) |
Summary
Kumano Shrine Oni-Oi is a powerful traditional event unfolded by devils played by men in their unlucky year and the people. Please experience this unique custom that cannot be seen anywhere else.