Komachi Matsuri

小町まつり

Historical background

Ono no Komachi has been known as a historical celestial beauty of Japan and renowned as one of the world three most beautiful woman in Japan, while she was a great talented poet and one of the "Rokkasen", the six best waka poets in Heian era. She was said to be born in Ono area in southern Yuzawa City, Akita. It is said that she had worked at the capital from 13 to 36 and she spent the rest of life in Akita after that.

There are several places related to Ono no Komachi in Ono area. One of them is Komachi-do, which was built as a hall for her in 1953. Shaykuyaku-zuka, the hill of Shakuyaku (peony), is located near this hall. There is a legend that Komachi told a man called Fukakusa no Shosho that she would meet him if he could come to her 100 nights. He went to her and planted 1 peony per night. However, on the 100th night, he died on the way to Komachi. This is not a true story, but it describes how beautiful she was and how important peony is for Komachi.

Characteristics

This festival takes place on the second Sunday in June every year, which is a beautiful season for peony. Seven women are chosen as Komachi daughters. They play important roles in this festival.

On the eve of this festival, there is a night festival called "Yoi Matsuri", where you can enjoy a historical dram about Ono no Komachi, Komachi daiko drum performances, and Komachi dances on a stage.

On that very day, the seven daughters wear Heian clothes and read waka poems made by Komcahi. In addition to this ritual, there are various events related to Ono no Komachi in this area, so visitors will have a wonderful time with people living in Ono area.