Experiences – Life – Inspiration 🇨🇭🇯🇵

Yesterday, we revisited the Oyada Shrine and Maple Valley in Mino, eager to witness the breathtaking spectacle of vibrant yellow and red foliage.

The Oyada Shrine is renowned for its stunning maple valley, home to approximately 3,000 Japanese mountain maples. This area, designated as a National Natural Monument, is celebrated as one of the premier locations in Gifu Prefecture for appreciating autumn colors. The air was crisp, and the rustling leaves created a soothing symphony as we wandered through.

To be honest, it wasn’t as spectacular as my previous experience in Shiroyama Park in Hida Takayama, where the colors seemed to glow. I believe that timing is crucial when it comes to witnessing nature’s brilliance. Nonetheless, we were fortunate to attend the Hinkoko Festival at Oyada Shrine.

During the Hinkoko Festival, we were captivated by a traditional puppet performance, which has a captivating history spanning approximately 500 years. This festival is recognized as a National Important Intangible Folk-Cultural Property, a testament to its cultural significance.

The Hinkoko Festival is held twice annually:

• Spring: On the second Saturday of April and the following Sunday.
• Autumn: On November 23, coinciding with the Maple Festival, which celebrates the vibrant autumn foliage surrounding the shrine.

The festival features a mesmerizing puppet play, performed to pray for an abundant harvest and to spiritually cleanse attendees. In the spring, the “Hinkoko” performance follows a lively children’s parade and a rhythmic taiko drum presentation.

Visitors to the Hinkoko Festival can immerse themselves in a rich cultural experience that beautifully blends traditional puppet theater with the serene natural beauty of the shrine’s surroundings. It’s a reminder that while nature’s palette may vary from year to year, the joy of tradition and community remains constant.

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