6Shira-nigite (White Staff with Plaited Paper Streamers)
Shira-nigite refers to the white staff with plaited paper streamers that were carried by the men and women, both young and old, around Myōken Shrine, who took part in the procession. At one time, only women were permitted to take part as dedicators.
The word nigite in shira-nigite means a hemp cloth that is offered to the gods, which was later changed to silk or paper.
It is uncertain exactly when shira-nigite started, but it has been said that this staff was already a part of procession according to records from about 250 years ago.
Today, the participation of people in colorful costumes also adds grace to the Shinkō procession.
