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February 11, 2026 at 9:00 am
Event date:
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February 11, 2026 at 3:50 pm
Event end:
History
The Daito-Ohara Water Throwing Festival in Ichinoseki City, Iwate Prefecture, is a centuries-old tradition that dates back to 1657. That year, a massive fire devastated Edo (modern-day Tokyo), which was remembered as an unlucky year. The festival was established as a fire-prevention ritual and a symbolic act of cleansing misfortune, aiming to protect communities from fire disasters.
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Contact Jasumo Now →Over time, the festival evolved into a unique and lively celebration where residents honor tradition, resilience, and community spirit. Participants in their “yakudoshi” (unlucky years: ages 25, 42, and 61) take center stage in this ritual, symbolically purifying themselves and the town from misfortune.
Today, the festival combines both solemn cultural significance and a playful, interactive atmosphere, drawing visitors who want to experience one of Iwate’s most distinctive winter traditions.
Overview
The Daito-Ohara Water Throwing Festival 2026 will take place on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, along Ohara Shopping Street and surrounding locations in Ichinoseki. The highlight of the festival is the main water-throwing event, where local men in traditional attire—or nearly naked—run through the streets while onlookers splash them with cold water.
The water-throwing is not only entertaining but also symbolic: each splash represents the washing away of misfortune, wishes for health, safety, and prosperity, and prayers for fire prevention. The entire festival runs from morning to mid-afternoon, with the main procession starting around 3:00 PM and lasting roughly an hour. Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere, interact with locals, and witness a centuries-old tradition in action.
Highlights
- Historic ritual originating from 1657 for fire prevention and purification.
- Yakudoshi runners (ages 25, 42, and 61) doused with water in a symbolic cleansing.
- Community participation, where locals and visitors splash water and make wishes.
- Unique cultural experience combining tradition, entertainment, and social bonding.
- Festive atmosphere with streets filled with excitement, laughter, and winter energy.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Witness a unique, centuries-old Japanese festival unlike any other.
- Participate or watch the interactive water-throwing ritual with the community.
- Experience the symbolic purification and fire-prevention tradition.
- Great opportunity for photography and cultural storytelling.
- Enjoy local hospitality and learn about Ichinoseki’s history and customs.
If you’re coming to Japan or already here and need any type of help—from custom tours and experiences to transportation or ticket bookings—just contact us through the Contact Us page on Jasumo.
Schedule
Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 3:50 PM (Approximate full-day event)
Main Water-Throwing: Starts around 3:00 PM, lasting about 1 hour
Venue: Ohara Shopping Street and surrounding locations, Ichinoseki City
Pricing
Admission: Free for all visitors
Activity Fees: None—community event
Food & Drinks: Local stalls and shops available nearby
Location
Venue: Ohara Shopping Street and surrounding areas
Address: Ichiroku-54 Daitocho Ohara, Ichinoseki, Iwate 029-0711, Japan
How to Get There:
The closest station is Surisawa Station on the Ōfunato Line, approximately 12 minutes by taxi to the festival area. Driving is also possible, with limited parking in and around Ohara.
Accommodation Options
Visitors can stay in Ichinoseki City or nearby towns, with options ranging from traditional ryokans to modern hotels. Popular choices include Ichinoseki Grand Hotel or Hotel Route-Inn Ichinoseki, offering convenience and comfort.
Average nightly rates range from ¥7,000 to ¥15,000, depending on the type of accommodation and proximity to the festival. Booking early is recommended due to the festival’s popularity.
FAQs
Q1. When is the Daito-Ohara Water Throwing Festival 2026 held?
It takes place on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, with the main water-throwing event in the afternoon.
Q2. Is there an admission fee?
No, admission is completely free for all visitors.
Q3. What happens during the main event?
Local men in their unlucky years (yakudoshi) run through the streets while spectators throw water, symbolizing purification and fire prevention.
Q4. How do I get to Ohara for the festival?
The closest station is Surisawa Station, followed by a 12-minute taxi ride to the festival. Driving is also an option with nearby parking.
Q5. Are there accommodations nearby?
Yes, Ichinoseki offers hotels and ryokans near the festival, providing easy access and comfortable stays.
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