February is here! In this issue, we would like to introduce Hatsuuma Day, a unique Japanese tradition associated with one of Japan's most famous shrines, Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto.
Do You Know About Hatsuuma?
Hatsuuma is a traditional Japanese event held on the first "Day of the Horse" in February. In the traditional Japanese calendar, each day is associated with one of the twelve zodiac animals in a repeating cycle. Because of this system, there are multiple "Days of the Horse" throughout the year, but Hatsuuma specifically refers to the first one in February.
On this day, special festivals are held at Inari shrines to honor Inari, the deity of agriculture and prosperity. Inari shrines are Shinto shrines dedicated to Inari, one of Japan’s most widely worshiped deities, known for bringing good harvests, business success, and overall prosperity. These shrines are easily recognized by their iconic red Torii gates, and many feature fox (Kitsune) statues, as foxes are believed to be Inari’s divine messengers.
People visit these shrines to pray for a bountiful harvest and success in business.
The Connection Between Hatsuuma and Fushimi Inari Taisha
Why the "Day of the Horse" at a shrine dedicated to the "Fox"? You might wonder. The answer lies in history.
Hatsuuma is deeply connected to Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, one of the most famous shrines in Japan, known for its iconic Senbon Torii (a thousand red torii gates). According to legend, the origins of this tradition date back to the year 711 AD, when the deity Inari Okami was enshrined at Fushimi Inari Taisha on the first Day of the Horse in February. This event marked the beginning of Inari worship throughout Japan, and since then, Hatsuuma festivals have been held every year on this day.
Fushimi Inari Taisha serves as the head shrine of over 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan. On Hatsuuma day, Fushimi Inari is bustling with visitors who come to pray for good luck. On this special day, worshippers receive a sacred talisman called "Shirushi no Sugi", a small branch of cedar believed to bring blessings.
Along the shrine’s approach, various treats are sold to celebrate the occasion, including Inari zushi—a type of sushi wrapped in fried tofu (thought to be the favorite food of foxes)—as well as sweets shaped like fox faces, adding to the festive atmosphere of Hatsuuma.
How Do People Celebrate Hatsuuma Across Japan?
The most common way to celebrate is by eating Inari zushi (sushi). In Kyoto and other areas of Kansai, people eat triangular-shaped Inari zushi, designed to resemble fox ears. Since Hatsuuma is a festival for praying for a bountiful harvest, in the Kanto region, people eat barrel-shaped Inari zushi, which symbolizes rice bales.
In Kyoto, another traditional food for Hatsuuma is Hatakena, a leafy green vegetable similar to radish leaves, seasoned with mustard. In Ōhara, the Northeastern part of Kyoto, there is also an event called Daikon-daki, where locally grown Daikon radishes are simmered and served to visitors.
In various regions of Japan known for silk farming, such as Gunma, Gifu, and Toyama prefectures, people make Hatsuuma Dango, dumplings shaped like silkworm cocoons. These can be enjoyed in soup, as a sweet treat with red bean paste called Zenzai, or grilled with soy sauce for a savory flavor.
Isn't it fascinating how the food traditions for Hatsuuma vary across Japan?
Conclusion
Hatsuuma is more than just a festival—it is a tradition that has been deeply woven into Japanese culture for centuries. From Fushimi Inari in Kyoto, the heart of Inari worship, to local customs across Japan, this special day continues to bring people together in celebration of prosperity, good fortune, and gratitude. Whether through prayers at shrines, delicious regional foods, or traditional rituals, Hatsuuma remains a meaningful event that connects communities and honors the blessings of Inari.
If you’re fascinated by Fushimi Inari, foxes, or traditional Japanese culture, why not explore some beautiful Inari and fox-related items? Take a look and bring a touch of Hatsuuma spirit into your life!
