The Miyamoto-gumi, a parishioner organization that leads the mikoshi (portable shrine) procession, is recruiting members for the Shicho-gumi, a volunteer group that supports the mikoshi (portable shrine) procession during the Gion Festival. This is the third year that the group has been open to the public, and there are already volunteers who want to continue participating every year. Starting this year, experienced volunteers will also join the group's management, further deepening their learning as bearers of traditional culture.

The Miyamoto-gumi procession leads the mikoshi (portable shrine) during the Gion Festival. Volunteers from the Shicho-gumi accompanying the procession place red umbrellas over the sacred treasures (Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City) (Photo courtesy of the Miyamoto-gumi)

The mikoshi procession takes place during the Gion Festival's Shinko Festival (July 17th) and Kanko Festival (July 24th). Miyamoto-gumi, the head of the parishioner organization of Yasaka Shrine (Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City), leads the mikoshi and parades through the town in a procession carrying sacred treasures such as imperial plates.

The Shicho-gumi will accompany Miyamoto-gumi, wearing white robes and carrying red umbrellas. Until now, this role has been played by student part-timers, but in 2023, the group began accepting applications from the public, saying, "We want to accept people who are more proactive in service."

Volunteers come from all over the country. Participants for each day are limited to around 100 people, so at times there have been five times as many applicants. A 47-year-old office worker from Tokyo who participates every year said of the attraction of the event, "You get to join the procession and serve while everyone along the route watches over you. It's a moving and precious opportunity."

As there are many repeat participants, starting this year the "Shicho-gumi Yoriki" (police officers) have been organized to look after newcomers. Around 20 people with experience are expected to participate.

Shicho-gumi is recruiting men between the ages of 19 and 55 who are confident in their physical strength. Applications are open from 2:00 pm until around 10:30 pm each day. Participation in the advance briefing on June 15th is a condition, and applicants can apply on the Miyamoto-gumi website by May 26th.