Mukonage and Suminuri

This is a traditional event that takes place every year on January 15th in the Matsunoyama Onsen area of Tokamachi City.

“Mukonage” refers to the unique act of throwing a groom who got married the previous year from the 5-meter-tall grounds of Yakushido Shrine onto a snowy slope.

It is said that this practice originated as a means of retaliation against a groom who married a local woman, but after being passed down through generations, it has evolved into what is now a beloved custom to celebrate newlyweds and strengthen their bonds. Applications are open to the general public until the end of November every year, so anyone can become the stars of this festival!

“Suminuri” is a custom that is held to pray for sound health and occupational prosperity, where ash from a Shinto ritual is mixed with snow, and people paint this on each other’s faces while offering words of congratulations. After the festivities, when everyone’s smiling faces are covered in black, the soot is washed away at Matsunoyama Onsen, closing a heartwarming event that can only be enjoyed here.