Kumano Brush Festival

Kumano serves as a major center for Japanese craftsmanship, manufacturing the majority of the nation's calligraphy, painting, and cosmetic brushes. The Fude Matsuri, which dates back to 1935, honors this industrial legacy through public ceremonies held at Sakakiyama Shrine and local school grounds. A central feature of the event is a live calligraphy performance where masters use massive brushes to create expressive artworks on oversized canvases.

One of the most energetic highlights involves the dragging of a decorated ship called a higanbune up a steep hill to the shrine forecourt. Once the ship arrives, it is spun vigorously by local men, followed by the tradition of throwing lucky mochi rice cakes to the crowd. Visitors can also witness traditional dances performed by women holding brushes and wearing decorative happi coats.

The festival includes a solemn ritual known as a brush memorial, where used brushes are burned in a sacred fire to bring good luck to the users. This practice also encourages the purchase of new tools from the many vendors present. Beyond the ceremonies, the event offers calligraphy workshops, a flea market, and numerous stalls serving traditional Japanese festival foods and drinks.