下清内路の手づくり花火
The Biggest Feature of Handmade Fireworks
Handmade from Gunpowder
In October, handmade fireworks are dedicated in Seinaiji, Minami-Shinano. Seinaiji is known for its agricultural products like pumpkins and turnips, especially tobacco leaves. The tradition dates back to 1731 when villagers learned the secret of making gunpowder in exchange for tobacco. These handmade fireworks have been dedicated as part of the autumn festival for about 300 years, without interruption. This dedication takes place at Suwa Shrines in Kami-Seinaiji, Shimo-Seinaiji, and Tate Shrine in Shimo-Seinaiji.
Handmade fireworks here are not the colorful aerial fireworks seen in other places but are dazzling yellow sparklers. These fireworks are said to "bloom like flowers" among those involved.
On October 12th, the second night of the festival was held at Suwa Shrine in Shimo-Seinaiji. The first dedication in Kami-Seinaiji was completed a week earlier, and it was reported in the newspaper. By 6 PM, many people had gathered at the festival site, and preparations for the fireworks began at 7:30 PM.
Structures and wires were set up within the shrine grounds, and fireworks were being prepared. Skyrockets were launched every three minutes, while gunpowder was prepared for the main event.
At 7:30 PM, the first fireworks display began. Fireworks traveled along wires from the shrine's steps, igniting the structures across the shrine grounds, accompanied by loud crackling sounds and shouts of "Oisa! Oisa!"
The bright light and sound are overwhelming. After the first flower-shaped firework called Hanagasa ends, the next setup, Toma-guruma, a vertically rotating firework, is prepared on the opposite side of the shrine grounds.
The climax of the festival is the large Sangoku, a pillar about 10 meters high with a bamboo tube on top. The fireworks create a waterfall-like effect with loud sounds and smoke, providing a simple yet powerful spectacle. There have been failures in the past, such as explosions upon ignition. The use of bamboo tubes is a unique feature of this festival.
Sparks running along the wires around the shrine grounds, fireworks bursting upon ignition, and the rising smoke create an impressive scene. The sight of people stomping their feet amidst the sparks was captivating.
The hand-held fireworks and "Black Ship Sakura" seen at Tate Shrine required extensive preparation time.
October in Seinaiji is very cold, and there are waiting times for setup. It is advisable to wear warm clothing. The venue is crowded, so using a tripod is not recommended. Follow the staff's instructions for a pleasant viewing experience.
| Location | Shimo-Seinaiji, Achi Village, Shimoina District |
|---|---|
| Website | None |
| Structure | Village-designated cultural property Kyōhō era |
|---|---|
| Architectural style | Enclosure tower for handmade fireworks dedication |