On the third Saturday night of December, a cold water purification ritual is held in the Kawatsuki River near the Kumano Shrine, downstream of the Shiraito Falls. This traditional event in Itoshima is a prayer for good health and a bountiful harvest of crops. Marked by the sound of drums, local men dressed in loincloths bravely enter the river, which is less than 5 degrees Celsius, shouting “Oisa! Oisa!” as they purify themselves and splash water vigorously. While the men continue their purification, the ‘toshiotoko’ (men born in the zodiac year corresponding to that year) wash rice downstream and cook it to offer at the shrine. At dawn, the priest checks the inclination of the offered rice to divine the harvest for the coming year. Same-day participation is available (note: individuals with tattoos are not permitted). The traditional fundoshi (loincloth, ¥500) can be purchased at the Kumano Shrine office.
（一社）糸島市観光協会
• 12/21 (Sat.)
• 23:40~
• Free viewing
• Kawatsuki River, Kumano Shrine
• 684 Shiraito, Itoshima City, Fukuoka (Kumano Shrine)
• https://kanko-itoshima.jp/spot/shiraitokanmisogi/
（一社）糸島市観光協会
