In the past as well as today, Osaki Hachimangu Shrine has been revered by the citizens of Sendai as the home of the god for warding off evil, preventing disaster, bringing victory and assuring safe childbirth. The large vermillion gate, broad stone path and cedar-filled compound convey the sense of the majesty of the DATE clan’s 400-year history and its heyday. The shrine is of gongen-zukuri construction, where the worship hall at the front is connected to the main sanctuary at the back by a room called the ishinoma. With its engraved and decorated lacquer covering, and the gold ornamentation, this National Treasure of Japan overwhelms the viewer with its majesty and splendor. Many of the city’s residents attend the various festivals, such as Saitansai during New Years, Reitaisai in September, and Shichigosan in November. Most notable is the Dontosai on January 14, where all the New Year’s decorations are burned in a bonfire to pray for sound health and peace and prosperity in the shrine grounds. Around 100,000 people attend the festivities. The Hadaka-mairi (naked procession) during this festival is an iconic scene of the severe Sendai winter.