【Designated by the City：Intangible Folk】Shishi-mai (Lion Dance) of Higa

Legend has it that the Shishi-mai of Higa began in 1913. The ruling class and the commoners disputed over land possessed by the settlement, and the issue was brought to the court. Being worried about the future of the Higa settlement, both sides reached a settlement in 1912. It is said that the Shishi-mai, horse-racing, and Sumo were conducted as part of the commemorating events to celebrate the peaceful resolution. The events (held on January 20 on lunar calendar) are called “Patsukan Shogatsu (New Year)”. Since then, the Shishi-mai has been passed down as a traditional event wishing for the prosperity and good health of the settlement.