The Geishun Nebuta (迎春ねぶた) of Samukawa-jinja Shrine (寒川神社)

The Geishun Nebuta of Samukawa-jinja Shrine

The Main Hall of Samukawa-jinja Shrine

The Geishun Nebuta (迎春ねぶた) of Samukawa-jinja Shrine (寒川神社) celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.  "Geishun (迎春)" means welcoming the new year, while "nebuta (ねぶた)" refers to large lanterns, often depicting mythical or historical figures, crafted from Japanese washi paper and typically placed on floats.

This year's Geishun Nebuta is titled "Kinotomi – Benzaiten and the Fortune Snakes (乙巳～弁財天と幸運の蛇～)," crafted by Makoto Suwa.  The year 2025 corresponds to Kinotomi (乙巳) in the sexagenary cycle, a traditional system combining the twelve zodiac signs and the ten heavenly stems.

Since ancient times, snakes have been worshipped as deities of fertility and weather.  Due to their ability to shed their skin, they symbolize rebirth and regeneration.  Additionally, their ability to survive long periods without food is associated with great vitality, making them auspicious creatures and messengers of the gods, including Benzaiten (弁財天).  White snakes, in particular, are revered as deities of prosperity in business.

The nebuta will be on display until February 23 and illuminated from sunset until 7:00 PM.