Morioka Hachimangu Shrine Annual Festival

Its origins date back to 1709 (Hoei 6), when the townspeople of the 23 towns around the castle dedicated one float from each town to Morioka Hachimangu Shrine to celebrate the completion of Morioka's town planning. A gorgeous autumn festival that incorporates the culture of the chic Edo and elegant Kyoto is held in Morioka City, centered around Morioka Hachimangu Shrine. Starting from the Yomiya Festival on September 13th, there will be a solemn ritual called ``Hachiman Kudari'' where the mikoshi is passed, a huge picture scroll parade of gorgeously decorated Morioka floats themed after famous scenes from Kabuki and history, and the impressive Yabusame horseback ritual. It will be held from Sunday to the 16th.