The areas beneath the roof and on the ranma (transom panels) are decorated with dynamic carvings. These works are a testament to the immense skill and competitive spirit of the master artisans of that era. We invite you to take a closer look to appreciate the individual expressions on each figure and the intricate details, right down to the delicate texture of the fur.  

Ranma (欄間): In traditional Japanese architecture, ranma are the decorative panels or transoms found above sliding doors or screens. They are often intricately carved and designed to allow light and air to flow between rooms. On the float, they serve a similar decorative purpose. 

Adorning the rear of the float is the miokuri-maku, a tapestry decorated with vibrant embroidery. These tapestries often depict scenes from historical tales or auspicious motifs, further enhancing the splendor of the festival.

The current miokuri-maku for Ikeda Town is a magnificent piece recently commissioned in Kyoto. Its official name is the "Hirashaji Sagarifujimon ni Ikedamachi Moji Shishū." It is crafted using a Japanese appliqué technique known as kiritsuke-nui. On a base of scarlet woolen cloth (hirasha), motifs of a descending wisteria crest and the characters for "Ikeda Town" are applied and stitched around the edges.

Its elegant form, swaying in the wind, is a truly captivating sight.

 Kiritsuke-nui (切付繍): A traditional Japanese embroidery technique similar to appliqué, where cut-out shapes of fabric are placed onto a base material and then stitched down around the borders.

Hirasha (緋羅紗): A type of thick, woolen cloth, often scarlet red, that was originally imported into Japan and became a prized material for high-quality garments and decorations.