Hanamaki Souminsai 2026

• January 2, 2026 at 8:30 am
  Event date:
• January 2, 2026 at 1:00 pm
  Event end:

History

The Hanamaki Souminsai (胡四王神社蘇民祭), also known as the Somin Festival, is a traditional New Year’s purification ritual that has been celebrated for centuries at Koshio Shrine in Hanamaki, Iwate Prefecture. The event’s origins are believed to date back to ancient Shinto practices, symbolizing the cleansing of one’s spirit and the welcoming of good fortune for the coming year. Deeply rooted in local folklore, it is said that participating in the festival drives away evil spirits and brings blessings to both individuals and the community.

The festival originally began as a local religious observance where men gathered at the shrine to pray for protection and bountiful harvests. Over time, it evolved into a more public spectacle, drawing large crowds who come to witness the strength, devotion, and endurance of its participants. The ritual’s central theme of purification reflects Japan’s broader cultural respect for cleansing and renewal at the start of a new year.

In the modern day, Hanamaki Souminsai has gained nationwide recognition as one of Japan’s most intense winter festivals. Participants, often dressed in minimal clothing despite freezing temperatures, climb Mount Koshio with torches, receive blessings from the shrine’s priest, and engage in the legendary “Somin bag” battle. This striking display of courage and faith continues to attract visitors from all over Japan and beyond, preserving a centuries-old legacy that connects the past and present.

Overview

The Hanamaki Souminsai 2026 will be held on Friday, January 2nd, 2026, at Koshio Shrine, located on the scenic slopes of Mount Koshio in Hanamaki City. The festival begins early in the morning with the preparation of mochi (rice cakes) and purification prayers led by a Shinto priest. Participants carry sacred amulets in their mouths while ascending the mountain holding torches, symbolizing their strength, faith, and wishes for a prosperous year.

The highlight of the festival is the Somin bag competition, a fierce and symbolic battle where half-naked participants wrestle over a sacred good-luck pouch. This contest can last for over an hour, testing the endurance and bravery of all who take part. The winner of the pouch is believed to receive a year of good fortune, success, and divine protection. Visitors can watch these powerful rituals up close, immersing themselves in a truly authentic Japanese winter tradition that combines spirituality, community, and spectacle.

Highlights

• Witness one of Japan’s most dramatic and sacred winter purification festivals.
• Experience the intense “Somin bag” battle symbolizing strength and luck.
• Observe traditional Shinto rituals and mochi-making ceremonies.
• Enjoy the torch procession up Mount Koshio during the cold New Year’s morning.
• A unique opportunity to connect with Japan’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Why Jasumo Recommends?

• A rare and authentic festival that showcases Japan’s ancient spiritual customs.
• Free and open to all, making it accessible for both locals and tourists.
• Offers breathtaking photo and video opportunities of traditional rituals.
• Easily reachable from Hanamaki or Shin-Hanamaki stations.
• Perfect for travelers seeking deep cultural experiences beyond major cities.

If you’re coming to Japan or already here, and need any type of help — from custom tours and experiences to transportation or booking tickets and more — just contact us using the Contact Us page on Jasumo.

Schedule

Date: Friday, January 2nd, 2026
Time: 08:30 AM – 13:00 PM
The festival begins with purification rituals and mochi-making, followed by the torch procession and the Somin bag competition, which marks the climactic end of the event.

Pricing

Free Entry — there is no admission fee required to attend. Everyone is welcome to watch and take part in the New Year’s blessings at Koshio Shrine.

Location

Venue: Koshio Shrine, 3-153 Yasawa, Hanamaki, Iwate Prefecture, Japan

How to Get There:
Koshio Shrine is located only a few minutes away from Shin-Hanamaki Station, which is accessible via the Tohoku Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo or Sendai. Visitors can take a local bus or taxi directly to the shrine. Alternatively, travelers from Hanamaki Station can reach the site via the Kamaishi Line, with local signs directing visitors toward Mount Koshio.

Accommodation Options

Hanamaki offers a range of accommodations suitable for all budgets, from cozy ryokans (traditional inns) to modern business hotels. Many local ryokans feature onsen (hot springs), allowing guests to relax and warm up after attending the cold winter festival. Staying in Hanamaki also offers easy access to other regional attractions such as Hanamaki Onsen Village and Miyazawa Kenji Memorial Museum.

On average, accommodation costs range between ¥7,000 and ¥15,000 per night, depending on room type and amenities. For the best experience, booking in advance is recommended, as many hotels fill up quickly during the New Year period.

FAQs

What is the Hanamaki Souminsai Festival?

Hanamaki Souminsai is a traditional New Year purification festival at Koshio Shrine, where participants pray for good fortune and engage in symbolic rituals for strength and renewal.

When will Hanamaki Souminsai 2026 take place?

The festival will be held on Friday, January 2nd, 2026, from 08:30 AM to 1:00 PM at Koshio Shrine in Hanamaki, Iwate.

How much does it cost to attend the festival?

The event has free entry, and all visitors are welcome to join or observe the festival without any ticket requirements.

How can I reach Koshio Shrine?

You can reach the shrine from Shin-Hanamaki Station by taxi or local bus. It’s also accessible via the Kamaishi Line from Hanamaki Station.

What should I wear or bring to the festival?

Since the event is held outdoors in winter, dress warmly and wear non-slip footwear suitable for snow. Bring a camera to capture the torch procession and rituals.

Video

Location