Horizons Magazine | July 2018

After becoming pregnant in one night, Goddess
Konohanasakuya-hime’s husband accused her of
having an earthly affair. In an attempt to prove her
innocence, she arranged to give birth in a fire. If
the babies belonged to her husband, who was also
a deity, they would survive. Sure enough, she had
three divine babies unharmed by the fire. This Shinto
legend developed into one of Japan’s most exciting
summer festivals.
Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine is a shrine dedicated to
the Shinto goddess of Fuji and all volcanoes. A main
hall, dancing stage and dense forest constitute Sengen
Shrine and contribute to the natural beauty and cultural
richness of Yamanashi Prefecture. Built in 1615, it was
a staple site of worship for the Fuji goddess during the
Edo period. For avid hikers that want to start at Fuji’s
base, Sengen Shrine serves as a starting point for the
long Mount Fuji trek. For festival-goers, it serves as a
starting point for the Hinamatsuri procession.
Every year on August 26th — in an attempt to please
the deity and prevent volcanic eruption for another
year — this shrine becomes the departure point for a
procession of portable pampas-grass structures. This
event is known as Yoshida no Hinamatsuri, or Yoshida
Fire Festival, and is most famous for its proximity to
Mount Fuji. The grass shrines, or mikoshi, and torches
are set on fire on Fujiyoshida’s main street. Much to
the delight of onlookers, these fires represent those
the goddess set while trying to prove her fidelity. Her
soul is supposedly transported around the city in the
mikoshi. The observation must be followed to a tee
so as not to anger her. The festival is meant to both
appease the deity and mark the end of climbing season.
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