Yassa Festival

What Is the Yassa Festival?

The Yassa Festival is a dance festival held each summer in Mihara, Hiroshima Prefecture, in which the whole community takes part. Centered on the "Yassa Dance," in which people of all ages parade through the streets in colorful costumes to the rousing call of "yassa, yassa," it is a signature summer tradition of Mihara. Established in its present form as a citizens' festival in 1976, it is cherished as a vibrant celebration in which local people come together to enliven the summer nights.

History and Origins

The Yassa Dance is said to have originated in the Eiroku era of the Sengoku period, when Kobayakawa Takakage built Mihara Castle and the townspeople—men and women, young and old alike—danced and sang freely to celebrate its completion. Since then it has been handed down as a popular dance rooted in Mihara, developing as a form marked by improvisation and freedom. In 1976 it was organized into its current citizens' festival as the "Mihara Yassa Festival," and has grown into a major summer event that, along with the dancing, also features a fireworks display.

Highlights

The greatest attraction is the fervor and sense of unity of the Yassa Dance, as thousands of dancers form groups and parade through the streets. To the call of "yassa, yassa" and lively music, each group dances in costumes and choreography of its own design, making for a spectacular sight. Because the dance prizes improvisation and freedom, there is an inviting atmosphere in which onlookers can join in spontaneously. The fireworks display held during the festival is also a popular event that colors the summer night sky of Mihara.

When It Takes Place

The festival is typically held in summer (August) in the central district of Mihara, Hiroshima Prefecture. As a summer festival, its season is summer. Because the dates and venues for the dancing and fireworks vary from year to year, visitors are advised to confirm details through official announcements from Mihara City and the Mihara Yassa Festival Promotion Council.

Access

The venue is the central district of Mihara, boasting excellent access within walking distance of Mihara Station on the JR Sanyō Main Line and the Sanyō Shinkansen. As a Shinkansen stop, it is easily reached not only from the directions of Hiroshima and Fukuyama but also from afar. Traffic restrictions are imposed in the city center during the festival, so public transport is recommended.

Around the Area

Mihara is known as the castle town of Mihara Castle, the "floating castle" that Kobayakawa Takakage built by reclaiming land among the islands of the Seto Inland Sea. The ruins of Mihara Castle adjoining the station, the scenic beauty of the inland sea's many islands, and seafood including octopus dishes are all appealing. Close to the Honshu gateway of the Shimanami Kaidō, it is also convenient as a base for island-hopping and cycling in the Seto Inland Sea. It is an area where one can enjoy a Seto Inland Sea journey along with the summer festival.

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