In a surprise find during the restoration of a sub-temple in Nara, archaeologists have uncovered a hidden cache of silver-plated ritual masks and charred pine torches. These artifacts are believed to be the earliest physical evidence of the Shuni-e (Omizutori) festival's transition from an esoteric court rite to a public fire-and-water purification ceremony.
The masks, featuring stylized celestial expressions, show traces of soot consistent with the high-heat ritual fires used in ancient Japanese Buddhist ceremonies. Dr. Kenji Tanaka, lead researcher, noted that the chemical composition of the silver suggests a trade link with Silla-era Korea, providing a new perspective on how cultural exchange shaped early Japanese festival traditions.