Omiwa Shrine Tanabata Festival

Omiwa Shrine in Sakurai, Nara, which venerates Mt. Miwa itself as its sacred body, is known as one of Japan's oldest shrines. Its Tanabata festival is held on the month-late date of August 7 so that children can take part, praying for academic improvement, progress in lessons, and the fulfillment of wishes. Large bamboo is raised before the worship hall, where visitors freely tie their wish cards. After the ritual, events such as a children's film screening and goldfish scooping draw families. In the sacred grounds beneath Mt. Miwa, visitors enjoy both traditional star-wish prayer and a gentle festive mood.