KUAS Students Embrace Kyoto’s Matsuno’o Shrine Festival

Experience Kyoto: KUAS Students Embrace Local Traditions

At Kyoto University of Advanced Science (KUAS), we believe in providing our students with more than just academic excellence; we offer opportunities for profound cultural immersion and community engagement. A recent highlight saw a group of our dedicated students participate in the historic Matsuno’o Shrine Omikoshi Festival, a vibrant testament to Kyoto’s enduring traditions.

The Matsuno’o Shrine Omikoshi Festival: A Glimpse into Ancient Kyoto

The Matsuno’o Shrine Omikoshi Festival is one of Kyoto’s most significant annual events, steeped in centuries of history. It involves the carrying of sacred portable shrines (omikoshi) through the city, symbolizing the movement of deities and bringing blessings to the community. This energetic and spirited festival offers a unique window into Japan’s rich cultural tapestry and the strong bonds within its local communities.  

KUAS Students at the Heart of the Celebration

Our students eagerly joined local residents in both the “Oide” (going out) and “Okaeri” (returning) phases of the festival.

• The “Oide” Festival: On April 20th, fifteen KUAS students lent their strength and enthusiasm to the “Oide” Festival. They proudly carried the heavy omikoshi through the bustling streets of Kyoto, experiencing firsthand the power and camaraderie of this ancient ritual. A particularly memorable moment involved crossing the scenic Katsura River by boat, a traditional element that added to the authenticity of their experience.  
• The “Okaeri” Festival: On May 11th, twelve students, including some from the initial group, participated in the “Okaeri” Festival, marking the return of the omikoshi to Matsuno’o Shrine. Their continued involvement demonstrated a deeper commitment and connection to the festival’s rhythms.  

Beyond carrying the omikoshi, other KUAS students contributed as photographers and support staff, ensuring that every moment of this significant event was captured and that participants felt fully supported.  

Building Bridges: International Students and Local Community

The participation of KUAS students, especially our diverse international student body, was met with warm welcomes from locals and festival organizers. This engagement served as a powerful platform for intercultural exchange, allowing students to:

• Connect with the community: Forge genuine relationships with Kyoto residents.
• Engage in traditional service: Experience the essence of communal responsibility.
• Understand Kyoto’s values and history: Gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage of their adopted city.

This direct involvement provided an invaluable, hands-on learning experience that goes far beyond the classroom. If you’re an international prospective student interested in these kinds of experiences, you can learn more here: Admissions Page.

KUAS: Fostering Civic Engagement and Cultural Appreciation

At KUAS, we are deeply committed to fostering civic engagement and promoting intercultural understanding. Events like the Matsuno’o Shrine Omikoshi Festival are integral to our educational philosophy, helping students to:

• Deepen their appreciation of Japanese culture.
• Develop a sense of community responsibility.
• Become globally-minded citizens who value and contribute to local societies.

We encourage all our students to seek out and embrace such enriching opportunities during their time in Japan. You can find more exciting stories like this in our News & Topics section.

(Institute of Interdisciplinary Research, Junior Associate Professor, Michael Smith)
(Revisioned by Giovanni Perez, International Office)