【Designated by the City：Intangible Folk】Great Tug-of-War of Miyaguni

It is one of the events held in the Miyaguni settlement during the Bon period of the lunar calendar. The rope is made of Kyaan (common derris) and the contest takes place on the main street in front of the Miyaguni Community Center, between “Isuzato” (west) and “Agasuzato” (east) of the community. After the match, a pushing contest called Deroi is held among young people at the intersection in front of the center. Then, men and women of all ages form a circle and dance Miyaguni’s Kuicha until late into the night.The Tug-of-War is a festive occasion wishing for the abundant harvest of the crops. Although the origins are not known, it is believed that the event symbolizes celebration and wishes for harvests, protection from evil, rainmaking rite in times of drought, and fortune-telling for the yields.
The feature of the Great Tug-of-War of Miyaguni is the powerfulness and liveliness based on the strong unity, unlike other tug-of-war events. It is a valuable intangible folk-cultural asset that represents vigorous and relentless spirits in the forefathers’ daily lives.
In addition, the characteristic fact that men dance along to women’s singing, and women dance to men’s singing makes Miyaguni’s Kuicha an important folk art to learn of the manners and customs of the people in the past.The Great Tug-of-War of Miyaguni in recent years is only held on the three days of Bon, namely July 13, 14, and 15 of the lunar calendar.