Omizo Festival

Omizo Festival (大溝祭り) is a 400-year-old traditional parade float celebration held every May at Hiyoshi Shrine. This vibrant festival, celebrated in honor of Takashima’s guardian god, has been recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage since 1983. It marks the start of spring with five magnificent parade floats – Minato, Tomoe, Takara, Isamu, and Ryū – which are paraded around the town to the sounds of drums and handbells.

The festival’s highlight occurs during the Yoimiya Festival on May 3rd, where young participants skillfully maneuver the floats in a traditional display of strength called tsuji-mawari. As evening falls, the floats are illuminated, reflecting a magical glow on the surface of Lake Biwa. On May 4th, the parade is at its most spectacular, with the floats dressed in their finest and a portable shrine carried through the streets. Don’t miss the exciting mochi-throwing event, where you can join in the fun and take home a lucky charm.