Snake Festival: Hundreds join to parade a giant 108-meter portable shrine during the Daija Festival in Gunma Prefecture, Japan.
Snake Festival was held in Gunma Prefecture, Japan.
A 108-meter-long portable shrine was paraded through the streets.
This is the first time in 12 years the shrine was displayed.
More than 300 people participated in carrying the 2-ton shrine.
The Spectacular Snake Festival in Japan
The Daija Festival, an annual event deeply rooted in Japanese culture, thrilled visitors and locals in Numata City, Gunma Prefecture, after a magnificent 12-year hiatus. The festival, celebrated in conjunction with the Oriental zodiac’s Year of the Snake (2025), brought back a dazzling event that mesmerized attendees. The central attraction was the 108-meter-long snake-shaped portable shrine, a symbol of vitality and celebration, carried through the streets of the Oigami Onsen hot spring resort. Known as Daija, meaning ‘giant snake,’ the shrine embodies the legend of Mount Akagi’s deity transforming into a serpent and releasing the area’s renowned hot spring waters.
A Monumental 108-Meter-Long Shrine
This year’s shrine, an impressive 30-meter upgrade on the usual design, stood out as a testament to the spirit of the Year of the Snake and the pride of local craftsmen. Measuring over 108 meters in length and weighing 2-tons, the portable shrine needed over 300 participants to carry it—a diverse mix of junior and high school students, local citizens, and officials. Together, they filled the streets with chants and unified their efforts to bring this symbol of community spirit to life. As the giant Daija serpent weaved its way through the streets, visitors cheered with excitement, bringing an air of joy and rejuvenation to the crowd.
Cultural Significance and Visitor Reactions
The Daija Festival is more than just a display of artistry and extraordinary craftsmanship; it is a celebration of Japanese mythology and the enduring links between nature, spirituality, and tradition. The 12-year gap since the festival’s last appearance created a sense of anticipation and reverence among attendees. Many, including a woman from nearby Saitama Prefecture, expressed how invigorated they felt witnessing the event. The sight of the enormous snake-shaped shrine being carried through the streets amidst chants and cheers became a vivid embodiment of community spirit, unity, and cultural pride.
The Festivities Continue
The festival kicked off on Friday and extended its celebration through Saturday, ensuring ample time for locals and tourists to spectate and engage. The scenic backdrop of the Oigami Onsen hot spring resort added a magical touch to the event. The resort itself holds a significant cultural meaning, as it is believed to have been created by the transformative powers of Mount Akagi’s god. The warm, healing springs provided a place of relaxation and reflection for visitors after the main event. Moving forward, locals hope the revival of the festival will usher in a renewed appreciation for tradition and mythology among the younger generation.
Commentary
Rekindling Tradition Through the Snake Festival
There is something inherently inspiring about reviving traditions, and the Snake Festival in Gunma Prefecture is a perfect example of how festivals can connect us to our roots. The moment the giant snake-shaped shrine paraded through the streets, it was evident that this was more than just a local celebration—it was a spectacle steeped in cultural heritage and unity. The 12-year hiatus only heightened the sense of awe and anticipation, showing the festival’s timeless relevance in modern society. By celebrating the Year of the Snake with this unique event, the community has skillfully brought back an ancient legend while creating new memories for all who attended.
The Symbolism Behind the Celebration
One of the most fascinating aspects of the festival is its connection to Japanese mythology. The story of Mount Akagi’s god transforming into a snake and bringing forth hot spring water reflects humanity’s enduring connection to nature. By honoring this legend with a visually stunning 108-meter-long portable shrine, the festival highlights the importance of preserving such stories. These myths are more than folklore; they are reminders of the interdependence between culture and environment, a message that feels relevant even in today’s fast-paced, globalized world.
A Celebration of Community Spirit
What stands out the most is the sense of togetherness this event fosters. The logistical feat of lifting and carrying a 2-ton shrine required not just strength but teamwork and camaraderie among the 300 participants. From students to local officials, everyone lent their hands to bring the giant Daija to life. This collective effort is emblematic of how traditions can bring communities closer, bridging generational divides. It is heartwarming to see festivals like these inspire younger generations, ensuring that such cultural practices continue to thrive well into the future.