There is a seven-year festival held every six years in Takahama City, Fukui Prefecture. Mr. Ichise of Takahama City invited us to observe this valuable festival.

Mr. and Mrs. Ichise are busy with their festival duties. So their eldest daughter first took us on a tour of Hibi, a living complex that has been the focus of much attention recently, before the festival began.

The facility is located in Ooi Town, a mountainous area about 10 minutes by car from Takahama, and was renovated by local architect Mr. Kishizaki, who relocated the 230-year-old residence of a retainer of the Muto clan of Ishiyama Castle.

Upon entering the facility, visitors will find a comfortable space that skillfully blends old and excellent architecture with new technology. The magnificent pillars and beams give a sense of history. From the café, through the large glass windows, the green of the mountains and the tiled-roofed houses of the old village are beautifully integrated with the greenery of the weedy fields. It is as if you are looking at an ancient landscape, and it is calming.

This café also offers creative French cuisine in the evening. We had the most exquisite cream puffs today.

The younger generation is trying to protect the good old historical landscapes of depopulated villages. This is an important initiative that will become a treasure for Japan in the future.

When we returned to Takahama, the rain was still falling. However, the locals were smiling regardless. It seemed that everyone was happy that the Dragon God had come and brought rain.

At the eve of the festival in the Nishiyama district of Takahama, children’s dances and young boys playing flutes and drums were performed in two different locations.

The thorough instruction of the dance teacher is evident from the wonderful dancing movements of the professional-level dancers, which is hard to believe for elementary school students. The makeup and kimonos are all beautifully dressed, just like adults.

That evening, a fun dinner party at Ichise’s house continued until late at night.