Sacred Rituals of Yakushima

• Photographer
  Shu Ito
• Agency / Studio
  Shu Photo & Film
• Technical Info
  Exposure Time:1/125?f/10?focal Length:65 Mm?iso 1000
• Photo Date
  October 6, 2024

Yakushima's mountain worship is evident in every aspect of daily life. After completed the pilgrimage to the mountains, which is one of the three major traditional cultural events of the village, the men were preparing for the "Grand Festival" by making sacred straw ropes (shimenawa). This task requires the strength of five men. Each one exerts their power, coordinating their voices as they twist and tighten the single rope. It is a beautiful moment that reveals their strength and the people's gratitude and reverence for nature of this island.