The origin of the Rokka Lion Dance is believed to be a tiger hunt conducted by Lord Kato Kiyomasa and has been designated as an Important Prefectural Intangible Folk Cultural Property. On the first Saturday after October 17, it is performed at the annual festival of the Rokka Shrine to invoke a good harvest. The Ladder Finale, including a thrilling lion climb and peony flowers, is the highlight of the festival. At the conclusion, two lions ascend a scaffold built on the shrine grounds. This is followed by a male lion who climbs up a 15-meter-high cedar pole, tears off peonies attached to the top, and throws petals to the spectators. Picking up one these flowers is said to bring good fortune. (The Shinto ritual takes place on October 17.)