Approximately 650 years ago, when Takauji Ashikaga was banished from Kyoto, he passed through Onomichi on his way to Kyushu, and was aided in navigating the tricky waters of the Seto inland sea by the fishermen of Yoshiwa. Later, Takauji gathered an army and returned to Kyoto to found the government now known as the Muromachi Bakufu. The Yoshiwa Taiko Dance began as part of the celebration of Takauji's victory, and continues today, sponsored by Jodoji Temple. Held on odd numbered years (by the western calendar), it was designated an Intangible Folklore Cultural Property by the Hiroshima Prefecture. Held on August 18th, every alternate year at Jodoji Temple.