Karasaki Shrine has been renowned since ancient times as a sacred place for purification rites and was one of the sites for the Heian-period “Nanase no Harai.” The shrine is believed to be efficacious for warding off misfortune and healing illnesses (particularly women’s lower-body ailments), and it is famous for its restroom amulet called “Chinowa-mamori.” At its center stands a giant sacred pine tree celebrated in the “Karasaki no Yaame” of the Eight Views of Ōmi. The Mitarashi Festival is held to pray for physical health in the summer. Various rituals and events are held, including the dedication of hand-held bamboo fireworks (tezutsu-hanabi) at 8:00 PM on the 28th. The precincts are illuminated by many lanterns donated from the local area and beyond, brightening the shrine grounds. Stalls selling Mitarashi dango and kakigōri (shaved ice) also add to the festival’s lively atmosphere.