The Taishi Festival, celebrating the New Year, is a customary event held at Otawara Shrine honoring Prince Shotoku, the god of architecture. This festival has been passed down since the Edo period as a ceremony to celebrate the opening of the construction industry. Participants honor Prince Shotoku, who laid the foundation of Japanese architectural techniques, and pray for safety and prosperity. Particularly eye-catching is the scene where ten carpenters, clad in traditional attire, demonstrate the skill of transforming logs into square timbers using traditional tools. This technique, which exudes the breath of history, is a precious craft rarely seen in modern times and is a highlight not to be missed for those engaged in construction or who love tradition. Why not take this opportunity to experience the beauty of Otawara Shrine and engage in a ceremony of high cultural value? Visiting this festival is a superb chance to encounter history and tradition and to deeply understand Japanese culture. Be sure to visit early to fully enjoy everything the festival has to offer.