Komono Town in Mie Prefecture will once again be lit by fire and tradition as the Sohei Festival takes place in early October. This dramatic event is famous for its "Flame Mikoshi," a 600-kilogram portable shrine adorned with around 100 blazing torches, carried through the streets by men dressed as warrior monks. The fiery spectacle against the night sky, combined with the echo of monk drums through the valley, creates an atmosphere that draws visitors from near and far.
The Sohei Festival pays homage to the warrior monks of Mitake-ji Temple, who played a powerful role in the region’s history before the temple was destroyed during Oda Nobunaga’s invasion in 1568. Today, the festival keeps their bravery alive with a one-kilometer procession from Mitake-ji down to the ropeway station, symbolizing strength, endurance, and cultural pride.
Beyond the flaming mikoshi, the festival offers a variety of entertainment, including stage performances, Yosakoi dancing, monk drumming, fireworks, and lively night stalls. Visitors can also sample Sohei Nabe, a rich hotpot made with wild game, mountain vegetables, and the local specialty Sohei miso, a dish once eaten for stamina by the warrior monks themselves.
Whether you come for the flames, the history, or the food, the Sohei Festival promises a night of fire, culture, and community spirit in the heart of Yunoyama Onsen.
