When you hear “chimaki”, many people think of “chimaki” made of glutinous rice, I am also one of them.
In fact, “chimaki” is one of the specialties at Gion Matsuri.
“Chimaki” at the Gion Festival is a talisman to protect against evil and cannot be eaten, but throughout the year Decorate it at the front door as a ward off evil.
Then, “Chimaki” What kind of legend is there?
The hint was in the amulet affixed to “Chimaki”.
It says “Somin Shourai’s future descendants.”
By decorating it at the entrance, I call myself “I’m a descendant of Somin Shourai.”
So I have a question. Who is “Somin Shourai”?
When I looked it up, there was a legend like this.
A long time ago, when “Gozutenno”, the main deity of Yasaka Shrine, visited a man’s house called Somin Shorai, he asked for an overnight inn.
The reincarnation is poor, but they are still hospitable. “Gozutenno” was very pleased with the consideration
In gratitude, “I will protect your descendants until the last generation. Put a ring of kaya on your waist as a landmark.”
He said and went home.
Thanks to that, even when the plague later spread, the Somin family survived and prospered.
Based on this legend, “I am a descendant of Somin Shorai, so please get rid of the troubles.”
It seems to be displayed at the front door.
“Chimaki” is awarded at Yasaka Shrine and each float’s meeting place.
he old “chimaki” can be cleansed and fired by putting it in the “return box” installed at each meeting place.
This year, like last year, those who cannot go to Kyoto due to the influence of corona are also awarded Chimaki on the Internet.
This year’s Gion Festival does not include floats, but why not decorate the front door with “chimaki” to prevent evil?
【Basic information】
Chimaki: Amulet to protect against evil
Awarding place: Please check the latest information for both the awarding place and the awarding on the Internet.
Period:
First-festival: July 14-16, 2021
After-festival: July 21-23, 2021
Access to each meeting place:
5 minutes to Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Station to Shijo Shinmachi
To get to Shijo Kawaramachi, get off at Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line.
