Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri Festival 2026

About this event

Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri is a historic Shinto ritual dating back to the Heian period, conducted annually from December 15 to 18 at Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara City, Nara Prefecture. Handed down without interruption since its founding in the 2nd year of Hoei (1136), it marks its 891st iteration in 2026. Often referred to as "living history of the performing arts," traditional performing arts originating in ancient and medieval times—such as kagura, azuma-asobi, dengaku, seino, sarugaku, wa-mai, and bugaku—are dedicated. In particular, the "Owatari-shiki" (December 17), in which around 1,000 participants dressed in period costumes parade through the streets of Nara, and the "Senko-no-Gi" conducted in the middle of the night to transfer the deity Wakamiya from the main shrine to the temporary shrine (Otabisho), are highlights of the festival. In addition, dedicated performances continue until late at night on the turf stage at the Otabisho, bringing the festival to its climax. On December 15, the local dish "noppei" is served at the Oyadokoro Festival, making it a winter tradition in Nara. During the festival period, viewing is possible from roadside areas or from paid special grandstand seats. Because of Nara's cold December weather, warm clothing is essential.

Venue

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

160 Kasugano-cho, Nara, Nara 630-8212