Miyajidake Kakashi-no-Sato Festival

Every spring, Miyajidake Kakashi-no-Sato holds its annual Kakashi Festival, typically from March 20 to May 5. The Japanese word “kakashi” (かかし) refers to a scarecrow, a traditional figure placed in fields to scare away birds and protect crops.

During the festival, around 600 scarecrows — each uniquely designed with different themes every year — greet visitors with playful expressions and whimsical costumes. Scarecrows are also displayed inside the station building, including on the second floor, offering a fun and interactive experience for all ages.

The philosophy behind the scarecrows is inspired by a scene from the 1973 film Scarecrow, in which Al Pacino explains that scarecrows are dressed humorously to make the crows laugh. The idea is that a crow, amused by the scarecrow’s appearance, will think that the owner of the field is a good person and will have no desire to damage the crops. Similarly, the scarecrows at Miyajidake are designed to delight, amuse, and bring a little joy to all who visit, reminding people to enjoy life while appreciating the simple pleasures of daily living.

Whether you come to enjoy local foods, seasonal experiences, or the creativity of hundreds of scarecrows, Miyajidake Kakashi-no-Sato offers a unique and vibrant glimpse into the culture and community spirit of Amakusa.