Kimbo San Fuyu Matsuri

February has passed which means that the winter has also passed. There was no more snowfall and the temperature was slowly rising up so it gradually felt warm, maybe just the remaining snow on the corner of some places. However, actually we can still enjoy the snow on the mountain in Tsuruoka. Last Wednesday, there was an invitation from Kokusaimura to attend Kimbo san Fuyu Matsuri (Snow Festival in Mount Kimbo). Because I got the permission from Pro. Sato, finally I got the chance to take part in the festival. I was there with several staff from Kokusaimura and several Indonesian students. We were picked up by bus at 5 pm in Yamagata University and then went to the location. Fortunately the location of Mount Kimbo is not too far from the university, about 30 minutes by bus.

After arrived, we still had to walk for about 5 minutes to reach the real destination. Because the atmosphere was getting dark and we were in the middle of forest, we were very careful when walking on the hilly road. Arriving at the festival location, the committee gave us some papers, ticket with number, and a piece of colorful candle. I was also amazed because there was one large statue that was very nice facing the arrival of the participants. Many people came to that place from children, young people, adults, and parents. Honorable officials and invited guests were also seen attending and sitting in the seats provided.

Firstly, we joined kind of ceremony at 6 pm. It was really quiet and sacred. After that, we went around to explore the place and enjoyed some Japanese food. We were waiting in line to get a free fresh mochi. we got two pieces of mochi and it was really sweet and delicious!

Then, we entered the shrine to find out wether our ticket’s number was lucky or not. Surprisingly, my number was lucky and I got a piece of iconic key chain.

After all place was explored, we went down again at the first place to watch some performances. We also tasted a sweet hot drink without alcohol which contain rice (I forget the name ☹).

Time passed by and it was 8 pm, mean that we have to go back home. However, it was really enjoyable and entertaining. I hope, I can experience other festival!