In the Japanese city of Ise, the Okihiki has begun, a tradition linked to the periodic renewal of the Ise Grand Shrine, which takes place every 20 years. The next edition is scheduled for 2033. The event involves the transportation of cypress wood to rebuild the shrine buildings, with citizen participation. On the first day, about 3,000 people dressed in traditional costumes walked nearly two kilometers, dragging large wooden structures while chanting.
The logistics of cypress: technical planning of the renewal 🏗️
The Okihiki is not a simple parade. Behind each haul is a plan that coordinates thousands of volunteers, the selection of cypress wood with specific properties of strength and durability, and verified transport routes. The main Ise shrines require structures assembled without nails, using traditional carpentry techniques that demand millimeter precision. Activities will continue over several weekends until August, with different routes to the shrines, ensuring that each piece arrives in optimal condition for final assembly.
Okihiki: when dragging logs is more popular than the gym 💪
While in the West we pay monthly fees to sweat on a treadmill, in Ise three thousand people drag wood for two kilometers dressed in traditional clothing. No machines, no training apps, just chants and collective effort. Neighbors and tourists watch, but some might think: what if next January I sign up for this instead of crossfit? At least here the sweat has a sacred purpose, and no one looks at you funny if you sing while you work.