Every year on September 7th and 8th, the town of Fujisato in Akita Prefecture holds the grand and lively “Asama Shrine Festival,” also known as the “Fujikoto Harvest Festival.” This festival has a history of over 400 years and symbolizes both the spirit of a bountiful harvest and the valor of warriors, attracting many local residents and visitors.

On the day of the festival, more than 20 dancers dressed in elaborate samurai costumes perform to the accompaniment of drums and flutes. Starting in the morning, they parade through the town, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. The dancers energetically perform along the streets and conclude with a grand final dance in front of Asama Shrine.

This festival is said to have originated over 400 years ago. At that time, Akita feudal lord Satake Yoshinobu was defeated by Tokugawa Ieyasu in the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600 and was exiled to the Kubota Domain in Akita. To lift his spirits after the exile, his retainers began performing battle dances to boost morale, which became the origin of the Fujikoto Harvest Festival.

On the day of the festival, there are many types of dances, with the most famous being the Komaodori (Horse Dance).

One of Akita’s most powerful festival dances — the Komao-dori (Horse Dance)

The dancers wear elaborate costumes modeled after samurai armor, with horse-like attachments around their waists and large shoulder plates called “hane” or “sode.” Through specific movements, they vividly depict scenes of mounted warriors facing off, fighting, clashing, and retreating.

During the performance, the dancers’ voices are strong and clear as they strike their shoulder armor to mimic horse hooves, showcasing the bravery of the knights. Even if their costumes get damaged or they suffer minor injuries during the intense dance, they never stop performing, fully displaying their vitality.

The entire festival is more than just a performance—it is a grand celebration that blends history, culture, community spirit, and seasonal harvest, allowing participants to feel the courage of past warriors and the warm traditions of the village.