Known as “Oyahiko-sama” and celebrated in Japan’s oldest anthology of poems, the Manyoshu, Echigo Ichinomiya “Yahiko Shrine” is the site of the “Ohi-kyo-sai.” This religious ceremony involves offering rice and salt to the deity as a “Goshinsen” to pray for the nation’s prosperity and peace, as well as the happiness of the people. Participants will receive Fukumi rice at the end. Previously not open to the general public, this festival has been accessible for participation since Heisei 25, with the approval of Yahiko Shrine. It's a solemn ritual not often experienced.