Hello! This is Utada from THE MACHIYA EBISUYA Hotel.
Today, I’d like to share another Kyoto summer tradition with you. In Kyoto, Umemiya Taisha Shrine has long been known among local residents as a shrine dedicated to the deity of Japanese sake. Every year on the final Sunday of August, the shrine holds the Saga Emperor Festival (Saga Tenno-sai).
The festival has been celebrated in remembrance of Emperor Saga, who ruled during the Heian period. The day includes sumo performed as an offering by children, musical performances, the Umezu Rokuzai Nenbutsu dance, and Bon Odori dancing. Emperor Saga is said to have been fond of sumo, and this connection is believed to be the reason that boys’ sumo came to be performed as an offering during the festival. It is one of the traditions that gives visitors a glimpse into the festival’s long history.
One of the highlights takes place in the evening: Umezu Rokuzai Nenbutsu, a traditional performing art passed down through generations. The sounds of drums and gongs fill the shrine grounds as the performance unfolds. Bon Odori is also held that evening, bringing local residents together for a lively summer gathering.
Food and festival stalls also line the shrine grounds, adding to the atmosphere of a local summer festival. Umemiya Taisha Shrine can also be visited together with other sights around the Arashiyama area. As summer draws to a close, the festival offers an opportunity to experience a tradition closely connected to the local community.
From THE MACHIYA EBISUYA, you can reach Umemiya Taisha Shrine directly by bus from the Shijo Karasuma bus stop. For more recommendations on places to visit around Arashiyama, please feel free to ask our team at the front desk!