Members of Izumo Taishakyo Mission of Hawaii, their supporters and invited guests gathered at the Chinatown shrine on Oct. 5 to celebrate the 108th Autumn Festival.
A traditional mikoshi (portable shrine) procession preceded the omatsuri service inside the shrine. Representatives of community organizations and the guests in attendance were invited to offer tamagushi (sacred branches) to the kami (gods) to thank them for the blessings bestowed upon them during the past year and to ask for continued blessings upon their family, business, organization and country.
The festivities continued after the service with a traditional mochimaki (throwing of mochi for good luck) and a homemade dinner prepared by the Izumo Trisha Fujinkai and Kyodan. Entertainment was provided by the Kenny Endo Taiko Ensemble, Bandoryu Dancing Group, Nakasone Dance Academy, magician Mike Ching and karaoke by John Sakai Music Studio.
