It's fun! August 24 Nishi Ward 80th Anniversary Commemorative Project “The 58th Meeting to Listen to the Sound of Nishi Ward Insects”

　The "Insects Listening to the Sounds of Insects" is a traditional festival of Nishi Ward where Kamonyama　Park, which is associated with Iizukabe head Naosuke, is illuminated with all lights and snow caves (bonbori) and listens to the sound of bells. It has been held since 1965, and this year marks the 58th time.
　At the beginning, a tea ceremony was held, and with the cooperation of Dr. Tarumizu Maeda, a sect of the Ii Naosuke Chado Setsoan style, we donated tea to the bronze statue of Naosuke Ii.
　In addition, in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the Nishi Ward system, we invited a gun squadron from Hikone City, which has long been friendly with Nishi Ward, to perform a demonstration. The venue was wrapped in loud cheers and applause with a powerful performance using a matchlock gun.
　The venue was blessed with good weather on the day, the venue was crowded with many people, playing field points, koto and shakuhachi in front of the statue, selling Suzumushi in the children's square, and various mock shops were opened. Everyone who came to enjoy it was seen.
　I am very pleased to be able to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Nishi Ward system with many visitors through this festival.
　I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the local people and everyone who worked hard for the event.

August 24, 2024 Kenji Kikuchi, Director General of Nishi