Every year on May 15th, the Yubana Festival is held at Hirayu Onsen in Takayama City. The event serves as a way for the local community to give thanks for the hot springs that have long supported life in the area.
Hirayu Onsen sits at the base of Mt. Norikura at 1,250 meters above sea level, and is considered the oldest and most historic hot spring in the Okuhida region. The area has around 40 onsen sources, with some reaching over 90°C, and its mineral-rich waters are thought to help with health issues like digestive problems and skin conditions.
The main ritual of the festival takes place at Hirayu Shrine from around 7pm, where hot water is gathered from each spring and boiled in a large pot. Wooden prayer sticks inscribed with wishes, known as goma-ki, are burned to heat the water. A Shinto priest then uses the hot water to bless attendees, a gesture which is said to bring good health and good fortune.
Earlier in the day, starting around 1pm, a market is held on the shrine grounds. Here, visitors can purchase traditional votive plaques known as ema, to write down their hopes and prayers.
Please note that the festival will be canceled in the event of rain, so check the forecast before attending.
