Beach | Food and Wine 01 September 2017

Shinju Matsuri Festival

Japanese for ‘The Festival of the Pearl’ this incredible event has been running for 46 years. Held annually in September, Oaks has been a proud partner for many years. This year the festival is being held from the 2nd to the 10th of September. Originating from three cultural festivals – Japanese Obon Matsuri, Malaysian Hari Merdeka (Independence Day from British rule in 1957), and the Chinese Hang Seng this festival is a fascinating fusion of history and culture.  

Shinju Matsuri takes us back a step in time to when the region was a world famous producer of South Sea Pearls. The Japanese, Chinese, Malay Filipino and Europeans were drawn to Broome from the late 1800's as part of the 'pearl rush'. What transpired overtime is pearlers setting up home and staying in the region creating a beautiful multicultural town. 

The Floating Lantern Matsuri is a truly touching afternoon where revellers gather to write messages to loved ones and send them out to see on a little floating lantern. Many tears are shed as it’s a very special experience. The lanterns are all collected afterwards to ensure none float out to sea.  

The Sunset Long Table is an event not to be missed. As the name suggests, it’s an unforgettable, four course dinner underneath the stars, on the sands of Cable Beach. Enjoy eight magical days of events from art installations, walking tours, historical tributes, Yawuru language course and so much more. Visit www.shinjumatsuri.com.au for more details.

Early Bird 2018. Book accommodation with Oaks before 31 October 2017 and SAVE 20% on your festival stay, 25th Aug - 2nd Sep 2018. Use your MYOAKS promo to access the discount.