Suwa Shrine, located near the center of Tambasasayama City, was founded around the year 749. It is believed to have originated from a branch deity of Suwa Taisha in present-day Nagano Prefecture. The shrine enshrines the deities Takeminakata-no-Kami, Yasakatome-no-Kami, and Yaekotoshironushi-no-Kami. The mountain where Suwa Shrine stands is also revered, with its ancient cedar tree considered sacred. This mountain, known as "Tobi no Yama," is associated with a legend in which a giant serpent encircles it seven and a half times, bringing blessings of "safe childbirth, bountiful harvests, and enduring fortune in battle." The annual grand festival, held early in the harvest season within Tambasasayama City, reflects the community's prayers for an abundant harvest.

This festival, held over two days with the eve of the festival and the main festival, features a variety of events. The main festival is particularly unique. Parishioners from the eastern and western areas, Higashiokaya and Nishiokaya, depart from the community centers dressed in formal attire. Early in the morning, they gather at the white torii gate, chanting as they go. After receiving a purification ritual from the shrine priest, they proceed along the shrine path, where they split by region to receive prayers and purification. They then separate again by region to hold a ceremonial feast, known as naorai.

The Naorai is a ritual where participants consume the sacred sake and offerings presented to the deities, purifying themselves in the process. At Suwa Shrine, the participants from Higashi-Okaya and Nishi-Okaya gather separately, conversing in spaces enclosed by traditional curtains. On the Okaya side, black soybeans from Tambasasayama are also served as part of the offerings.

As the feast reaches its peak, food exchanges take place between the two regions, followed by speeches from community representatives. After the Naorai concludes, people from both regions gather and walk down the shrine path together, singing the Ise Ondo song in unison.

The chants and songs sung during the procession express sentiments such as "Have you been well?" and "We’re glad this year’s celebration concluded safely." In the afternoon, children carry a portable shrine through the village, concluding with a purification ceremony at the shrine.

This long-standing festival not only celebrates the joy of the autumn harvest and expresses gratitude to the deities but also fosters a sense of community among the shrine's surrounding residents. We warmly invite you to come and experience this celebration firsthand.