In a tradition spanning over 13 centuries, medical workers and devotees gathered at Ohmiwa Shrine in Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, western Japan, for the annual Hanashizume-no-matsuri festival, a time-honored ritual aimed at seeking blessings for good health.
The festival, steeped in history, takes place in spring, coinciding with the belief held in ancient times that diseases spread as cherry blossoms fall.
Referred to as the Medical Herbs Festival, pharmaceutical companies from across the nation participate by sending medicinal offerings to the shrine. This year, approximately 2,500 items, including cold and stomach medicines, were presented before the altar as offerings.
During the event, Shinto priests conducted rituals involving the offering of medical herbs and prayers, accompanied by a ceremonial dance performed by four maidens. Following these solemn proceedings, employees from pharmaceutical companies and medical professionals joined in prayers for the well-being of all.
Reflecting on the significance of the festival, a man in his 70s, who has attended the event multiple times, expressed his hope for continued good health as he ages.
In line with the spirit of giving, the shrine announced that the medicines offered during the festival will be donated to welfare facilities within the prefecture, exemplifying the enduring tradition’s commitment to fostering community well-being and health.
