What it is
In Kitagawa, a village in the mountains of eastern Kochi, the New Year is marked every other year by a day of archery at Hoshi Shrine. Twelve archers chosen from the village prepare for days, purifying themselves in the cold waters of the Nahari River.
On January 8 they shoot 1,008 arrows at a large target, taking turns from early morning until dusk, to drive away evil spirits and pray for a good harvest. The ritual is said to go back to the Heian period and is protected as an intangible folk cultural property of Kochi Prefecture.
The festival at a glance
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| Jan 8, from early morning | Oyumi: Twelve archers shoot 1,008 arrows at the target through the day |
Which day should you go?
Jan 8
The ritual runs from early morning to dusk. The last ceremonial shots close the day.
What to look for
The archers
Twelve young men chosen from the shrine's parishioners, who purify themselves in the Nahari River for days beforehand.
1,008 arrows
The archers shoot 1,008 arrows in turn, followed by special ceremonial shots.
The target
A large painted target set up in the shrine grounds.
Getting there & where to stay
| From | How | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Kōchi | Tosa Kuroshio Railway to Aki or Nahari, then car to Kitagawa | about 2 h |
On the day. Hoshi Shrine is in a remote village in eastern Kōchi. Rent a car; public transport is very limited.
Crowds. A small local rite. Be quiet and respectful during the ceremony.
Where to stay
Kōchi
Rent a car here. Kōchi has a lively market and many hotels.
Aki
A small coastal city closer to the village.
When to book. Booking 1 month ahead is usually enough.
Times are typical fastest routes. Check current timetables before you travel.
Practical tips
- Odd years only. The festival is held only in odd-numbered years, so the next one after 2027 is in 2029.
- Check ahead. Confirm the schedule with the Kitagawa village board of education before you travel.
Glossary
Matsuri祭り
A Japanese festival, usually held for the kami of a local shrine. The word comes from the idea of serving and entertaining the gods.
Kami神
A Shinto deity or sacred presence. Kami can be gods from myth, spirits of nature, or deified people.
References
- Kochi Prefecture Board of Education: designated cultural properties, https://www.kochinet.ed.jp/bunkazai/details/300-2/300-2-m28.htm
- Matsuri Stream (Nippon Matsuri Network): Hoshi Jinja Oyumi Matsuri.
Last checked 2026-10-13.