Annual Raiho-shin rituals are held in various regions of Japan - mainly in the Tohoku, Hokuriku, Kyushu, and Okinawa regions - on days that mark the beginning of the year or when the seasons change and are based on folk beliefs that deities from the outer world – the Raiho-shin – visit communities to bring happiness and good luck.
Raiho-shins are the name given to exterior gods. It is a popular belief that these gods make visits to human communities during the new year or every season. This is a way for these deities, for them, to guarantee happiness and good fortune for the upcoming year or the following season.
At the events, locals dressed as deities in outlandish costumes and frightening masks visit houses to admonish laziness and teach children good behavior. In some communities, the rituals are carried out on the streets, and the head of the household treats the deities to a special meal to conclude the visit. Some communities assign men of a certain age the role of the Raiho-shin, while in others the role is bestowed upon women.
These rituals have evolved across different social and historical contexts, with different regional characteristics being reflected in the various forms they take. Therefore, the children play an integral part in the rituals. By performing the rituals, local people – specifically children – can have their identities molded, make a sense of belonging to their community, and strengthen ties among themselves.
According to their ancestors' traditions, community members share responsibilities and cooperate in the ritual preparation and performance, acting as the practitioners responsible for transmitting knowledge about the ritual. Visitations by these visiting gods take place at a milestone such as the New Year, which marks the return of God's messengers.
Every generation and gender participates’ in the Raiho-shin rituals. Each household prepares a special feast and the whole family welcomes the Raiho-shin ritual with the hope of fortune entering the new year. A lot of support has been provided by the national and local governments by providing subsidies and advice.
They have also created websites or pamphlets to help the communities learn more about Raiho-shin rites. In addition to strengthening collaboration, the National Council facilitates information exchange between communities.