The structure of the Hikiyama and its Features

A hikiyama is the place for divine spirits to reside, and its dismantlement purges evil spirits; additionally, the hikiyamas entertain visitors with their gorgeous decorations through the stylistic tradition of furyu. Each district competes to display the largest and most artistic hikiyama.
The picture on the left reveals the location of the hayashi-yagura, which is a stage for musical performances. Traditional Japanese lanterns and flowers are placed on the corners of the stage, and on the roof, a wooden board is erected. The wooden board, known as a Mikaeshi, includes satirical verses written by each town reflecting its current social issues. In addition, Mikaeshi dolls are used to visually represent those issues. The Tsuchizaki-Minato Hikiyama Committee presents awards for the best satirical verses .
The picture in the middle reveals the right side of the hikiyama. The pair of rocks shown includes an o-iwa (masculine rock) and a me-iwa (feminine rock), and the cloth hung between them symbolizes a waterfall.
The picture on the right reveals the front side. Warrior dolls represent a battle or a historical scene, and are an important element in evaluating the quality of the hikiyama. Plates are posted to explain the dolls and the scene as a whole, and indicate the name and number of the district.