Uwajima Ushioni Festival

The Uwajima Ushioni Festival (和霊大祭うわじま牛鬼まつり) is a vibrant summer celebration held annually at Warei Shrine in honor of Yanbei Seibei, a key figure in the history of the Uwajima Domain. Dating back to 1653, the festival was established by Date Hidemune, the first lord of the Uwajima Domain, and it commemorates the region’s rich heritage. Taking place in late July, this lively event spans three days filled with exciting festivities.

One of the festival’s highlights is the Gaiya Carnival, which kicks off the celebration. The parade features massive Ushioni, 5-6 meter long floats with distinctive ogre-like faces and red cloth-covered cow bodies. Visitors also enjoy the traditional Uwajima Odori dance, thrilling fireworks, and the hashiri-komi parade, where giant floats and sacred Mikoshi shrines pass by the Warei Shrine and along the Suka River, culminating with an impressive fireworks display.