Senteisai festival (Akama-jingu Shrine)

The Senteisai festival at Akama Shrine is a significant cultural and religious event that commemorates the life and death of Emperor Antoku, who passed away at a young age during the naval Battle of Dan-no-ura in the Genpei War. This battle, which occurred in 1185, was a pivotal moment in Japanese history and marked the end of the Taira clan’s power. The Akama Shrine, where the festival is held, is dedicated to Emperor Antoku, who is enshrined there.

The festival includes several Shinto rituals that are steeped in tradition. Priests at the shrine perform these rituals with solemnity and reverence, praying for the peace of the emperor's soul and for the prosperity and well-being of the people. Participants and visitors can offer prayers and present offerings at the shrine. These offerings typically include traditional food items, sake, and other symbolic gifts that hold cultural significance. The festival also features various cultural performances. These might include classical Japanese music, dance, and sometimes, historical reenactments related to the battle and the emperor's life.

On May 3rd, the "Joro Dochu" takes place, during which Tayu (the highest class of traditional courtesan) can be seen in their stunning attire, walking in their tall wooden clogs known as geta, around Akama-jingu Shrine and the Shimonoseki City Center.