About
In the heart of Kochi City, where the vibrant pulse of Shikoku Island beats strongest, there exists a whimsical deity known as the "Bero Bero no Kamisama"—the God of Drunken Merriment. This jovial figure, with a perpetually flushed face and a mischievous grin, stands as a testament to the region's deep-seated reverence for camaraderie and celebration.
As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm amber glow over the city, the streets come alive with the sounds of laughter and clinking glasses. The air is thick with the aroma of freshly grilled katsuo no tataki, the local delicacy of seared bonito, mingling with the sweet scent of yuzu-infused spirits. It's during these twilight hours that the spirit of the Bero Bero no Kamisama is said to roam, blessing revelers with the gift of unbridled joy and the occasional tipsy stumble.
Legend has it that this deity descends upon gatherings that stretch into the wee hours, ensuring that honesty and mirth prevail. An old song, often sung during such festivities, pays homage to this benevolent spirit:
"Bero Bero no Kamisama wa♪ Shoujiki na Kamisama yo♪"
("The Bero Bero no Kamisama is♪ An honest god♪")
This tune encapsulates the essence of the local "okyaku" culture—a term that translates to "guest" but colloquially signifies a communal feast or banquet. In Kochi, an "okyaku" is not merely a meal; it's an exuberant celebration of life, friendship, and the shared love for sake.
Central to these gatherings is the tradition of "bekuhai," a playful drinking game involving uniquely shaped cups that challenge participants to consume their drinks in creative ways. The cups, often crafted in the likeness of tengu (a mythical bird-like creature), hyottoko (a comical mask with puckered lips), and okame (a mask representing a homely woman), are designed so that they cannot be set down until emptied. This game, guided by the whims of the Bero Bero no Kamisama, ensures that the festivities are filled with laughter and spirited competition.
During the annual "Tosa no Okyaku" festival, held every March, the city transforms into a sprawling banquet hall. Streets are lined with food stalls offering local delicacies, and stages host performances ranging from traditional Yosakoi dances to contemporary music acts. At the heart of the festival stands a larger-than-life effigy of the Bero Bero no Kamisama, designed by renowned figure illustrator Yukinori Dehara. This endearing statue serves as both a guardian and a reminder to all who partake: to embrace the joy of the moment and the bonds forged over shared cups of sake.
Visitors to Kochi are often enchanted by the warmth and hospitality of its people, a reflection of the Bero Bero no Kamisama's influence. It's a place where strangers become friends over shared meals, and where the spirit of celebration is woven into the very fabric of daily life. To stand in the presence of this merry deity is to understand that in Kochi, every gathering is an opportunity to honor the simple pleasures of good food, good drink, and good company.
So, should you find yourself wandering the lively streets of Kochi, let the Bero Bero no Kamisama be your guide. Raise a cup, share a laugh, and immerse yourself in the joyous tapestry of traditions that make this corner of Japan truly unique.