#Japan #Osaka #Osaka Expo #Mie Prefecture #MIE Festival

Celebrate Mie's Heritage at the 2023 EXPO in Osaka

On September 22, 2023, the vibrant culture of Mie Prefecture will be showcased at the Osaka Kansai Expo. The event titled "MIE Festival in EXPO" will highlight ten of Mie's most beloved traditional festivals, each rich in history and community spirit.

Expo Details

The festival will take place from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the EXPO Arena, specifically in the "Matsuri" area near the West Gate of the Expo venue. The theme of the Mie booth at the Kansai Pavilion is "The Origin of Japan's Heart – The Timeless Stories Leading to Beautiful Country Mie". Visitors will experience the stunning cultural heritage of Mie through exhibitions showcasing its history, culture, nature, and delicious cuisine.

Festivities on Display

Attendees can anticipate an engaging opening ceremony featuring a performance by the dance club of Mie High School, followed by an array of festival demonstrations. Throughout the day, the following traditional festivals will be presented:

• - Anori Puppet Theater (Anori no Ningyōshibai) from Shima City, showcasing a 400-year-old cultural treasure.
• - Kuwana Stone Festival (Kuwana Ishidori Matsuri), celebrated for its ceremonial significance and known as Japan’s loudest festival.
• - Katte Shrine's Sacred Dance (Katte Jinja no Shinji Odori) from Iga City, featuring vibrant performances that engage the community.
• - Yokkaichi Dainyūdō Festival (Dai Yokkaichi Matsuri Dainyūdō) known for its towering float representing early Edo culture.
• - Ueno Tenjin Festival (Ueno Tenjin Matsuri), recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
• - Tsu Festival (Tsu Matsuri), an event with roots dating back to the early 1600s, blending local and modern cultural performances.
• - Owase Ya-Ya Festival (Owase Yāya Matsuri), an exciting night festival filled with traditional lanterns and lively chants.
• - Okihiki Ceremony (Oki-hiki) representing the ceremonial transition of the Ise Shrine.
• - Kihoku Lantern Festival (Kihoku Tōrō Matsuri), which brightens the summer nights in the region with magnificent floats.
• - Seki's Float Parade (Seki no Yama Dans), which boasts impressive craftsmanship and competitive storytelling.

Unique Experiences and Cuisine

In addition to the festival displays, Mie's renowned delicacies will be available for tasting, including products from famous local brands like Akafuku and Imuraya.
Special booths from local enterprises will provide a diverse range of snacks and crafts, offering visitors a taste of Mie’s culinary artistry and traditional industries.

Visitors should not miss this unique opportunity to explore Mie’s cultural showcases firsthand at this prestigious event. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and witness the collaborative performances that bring together the essence of Mie's rich traditions, making it a memorable experience for everyone!

Event Schedule

• - 10:00 AM: Opening Ceremony
• - Various performances and exhibitions will continue throughout the day including the notable festivals as detailed above, culminating with the grand finale showcasing Mie's festivals at 5:30 PM.

Make plans to attend the MIE Festival in EXPO, where the heart of Mie's festivals and community come together!