御柱祭 · おんばしらまつり · festivals

Onbashira

Festival involving sacred tree logs in Suwa.

Definition

Onbashira is a unique Shinto festival held every six years in Suwa, Nagano Prefecture, where large logs are cut from sacred trees and transported to the shrine. This festival celebrates the renewal of the shrine and the bond between the community and the kami through the offering of these logs. It embodies principles of strength, endurance, and the deep respect for nature within the Shinto faith.

Etymology

The word 'Onbashira' (御柱) translates to 'sacred pillars,' emphasizing the spiritual significance of the logs used in the festival.