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January 18, 2026 at 5:00 am
Event date:
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January 18, 2026 at 5:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Hiruga Underwater Tug-of-War (日向の水中綱引き) is a traditional Japanese festival with origins dating back to the early 17th century. The ritual was originally a prayer for a bountiful fish catch and a way to ward off bad luck among local fishermen.
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Contact Jasumo Now →According to local folklore, a giant snake once blocked the Hiruga Canal, preventing boats from passing. Villagers demonstrated their strength by tearing apart a massive rope to scare the creature away. Another account traces the event to 1635, when the feudal lord of Obama, Tadakatsu Sakai, commissioned a canal connecting Lake Hiruga with the sea. The tug-of-war was established to commemorate the canal’s completion and ensure good fishing fortunes.
Initially, only young men around 25 years old participated, but over time the tradition has expanded to include people of all ages, some even up to 60 years old. The ritual continues to celebrate community strength, local culture, and prosperity.
Overview
The Hiruga Underwater Tug-of-War 2026 will take place on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Hiruga Bridge in Fukui Prefecture. The event begins early in the morning at 5:00 AM with the rope-making process at nearby Inari Shrine, followed by the main ritual starting around 2:00 PM.
Participants dive into the canal and compete to tear apart a massive straw rope floating on the water. Once the rope is successfully torn, its remnants are cast into the sea as an offering to the sea god. This dramatic contest combines strength, tradition, and local folklore into a unique winter festival experience.
Highlights
- Dramatic underwater tug-of-war with participants diving into the Hiruga Canal.
- Rope-making ceremony at Inari Shrine starting early in the morning.
- Ritual dates back to the 17th century, rooted in local folklore and fishing traditions.
- Participants range from young adults to people in their 60s, showcasing community involvement.
- Ends with the rope remnants being offered to the sea god, marking a prayer for prosperity and good luck.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Witness one of Japan’s most unique and adrenaline-filled traditional rituals.
- Experience centuries-old customs rooted in local folklore and fishing culture.
- Perfect for travelers seeking authentic and offbeat Japanese winter festivals.
- Great opportunity for photography and storytelling along the canal.
- Family-friendly viewing areas allow everyone to enjoy the event safely.
If you’re coming to Japan or already in Japan, and need any type of help — from custom tours and experiences to transportation or ticket bookings — just contact us through the Jasumo contact page.
Schedule
Date: Sunday, January 18, 2026
Time: 5:00 AM – 2:00 PM (rope-making starts at 5:00 AM; main ritual begins around 2:00 PM)
Pricing
Admission: Free entry
Location
Venue: Hiruga Bridge, Hiruga Canal
Address: Hiruga, Mihama, Mikata District, Fukui 919-1126, Japan
How to Get There
- By train: Take local trains to Fukui Prefecture and use buses or taxis to reach Hiruga Bridge.
- By car: Accessible via local roads; parking is available near the canal area.
Accommodation Options
Visitors can stay in nearby guesthouses, inns, and hotels in Hiruga or Mihama. Budget accommodations start around 6,000 JPY per night, while ryokans with onsen and traditional experiences average 12,000–18,000 JPY per night. Staying nearby allows easy access to the festival and a full winter experience along the Fukui coast.
FAQs
What is the Hiruga Underwater Tug-of-War?
It’s a centuries-old Japanese festival where participants dive into the canal to tear apart a massive straw rope, praying for a bountiful fish catch and good luck.
When is the 2026 event?
Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 5:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with the main ritual beginning around 2:00 PM.
Is there an entrance fee?
No, admission is completely free.
How do I get to Hiruga Bridge?
Visitors can reach Hiruga by train and bus from Fukui Prefecture, or by car. Local parking is available near the bridge.
Who can participate in the tug-of-war?
Traditionally, participants were young men around 25 years old, but now people of all ages, including participants up to 60, can join. Spectators are welcome to watch safely from the canal’s edge.
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