Onbashira Part 2: Shimosha (Vlog #05)

Even compared with the risky kiotoshi ("tree drop") in Chino the week before, Shimosuwa's is very dangerous.  This is no controlled drop.  For Shimosha, the log has a free-fall slide down a steep hill, with the men riding it literally clutching on for dear life.  There have been a number of deaths during the festival in the past.

The Onbashira Festival contains two parts:

Yamadashi (Coming Out of the Mountains)
Kamisha takes place in Chino.
Shimosha takes place in Shimosuwa.

Satobiki
This will take place in May.
 

I was lucky enough to get my hands on a happi - the blue coat - which essentially marks who is a local (and can participate and access certain areas).

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