The former Nakaniida district was frequently struck by great fires driven by strong spring winds. The fire-prevention dance, transmitted since the Muromachi period, originates in the Chinese saying 'clouds follow the dragon, wind follows the tiger.' Inspired by this, tiger dances were dedicated at the Inari Myojin Hatsuuma Festival to borrow the tiger's power and calm the wind, thus praying for fire prevention. To lively festival music, colorful floats and tigers parade through the town praying for disaster prevention and household safety at each home. In front of the Hanarako-ji Festival Headquarters, several tigers climb to the high rooftops and perform a magnificent dance.
