IHI Soma Works Takes Part in One of Japan’s Most Dynamic Festivals
On July 29 and 30, employees of the IHI Soma Works participated in Soma Nomaoi (a horse festival). In this event, 400 cavalrymen galloped across the fields after parading through the streets in Soma, Fukushima Prefecture. The festival started over 1,000 years ago, when Taira no Masakado who is the ancestor of Soma clan, released wild horses in Koganehara, now the city of Matsudo in Chiba Prefecture, using them for military exercises.
On the first day of the festival, commander Toshitane Soma (see note 1) instructed the cavalrymen at Nakamura Shrine as part of a ceremony to depart for battle. Each year, the Headquarters Representative of the IHI Soma District dresses as one of the warriors. He serves a vital role of guarding the front and back of the Nakamura Shrine’s portable shrine. After instructions, the 400 rode to the Hibarigahara festival site in Minamisoma.
- Note 1: Toshitane Soma is the grandson of Kazutane Soma, the 33rd head of the Soma Nakamura clan, who were feudal lords of Soma. The family founder was Morotsune, a military commander during the late Heian period. In 1323, the family moved from Shimosa in the north of Chiba Prefecture to the Soso region. The family retained its territory until the Edo period.
A total of 216 IHI Group employees took part in the cavalcade through the streets of Soma. They consist of young personnel, new managers, foremen, recreation leaders, and personnel from IHI Jet Service and IHI Castings. Roles included carrying the portable shrine, sacred boxes, and the four gods, holding flags, and taking part in religious ceremonies.
At the Hibarigahara festival destination is a very long hill. The shrine bearers expended the last of their strength to dash up the hill. When it arrived with encouragement from fellow participants, cheers erupted from spectators.
It was especially hot on both festival days, making things very challenging for participants. With cheers from spectators along the route and support from Nakamura Shrine, the event ended successfully without no issues.
The Headquarters Representative of the IHI Soma District practiced horse-riding in his spare time after June, and fulfill his role of protecting the portable shrine. Employees participated in the festival were also delighted to be part of the festival.
The IHI Soma Works will maintain its involvement in the festival as part of its commitment to good corporate citizenship.
