"Sominsai", a festival that is said to have continued for over 1000 years at a temple in Oshu City, Iwate Prefecture, will be held for the last time on the night of the 17th. The biggest attraction was the competition for jute bags called ''Sominbukuro,'' which are said to promise rich grains.
The number of participants, including local and general applicants, was approximately 270, more than double the number in previous years. The chief priest of Kuroishi Temple said, ``I would like to express my gratitude to the many people who have supported the festival"