About this event
Held in Shinjo City, Yamagata Prefecture, the 'Shinjo Festival' is a traditional festival with a history of over approximately 260 years. As one of the 'Yama, Hoko, Yatai float festivals' registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, it fascinates many people with its grandeur and splendor. The highlight of the festival is the magnificent float parade, which is elaborately designed to depict famous scenes from Kabuki and historical tales. The floats parading through the city accompanied by brave festival music are a breathtaking sight. In addition, an ancient, solemn portable shrine procession (mikoshi togyo) featuring a total of 200 people dressed in costumes from the feudal domain era takes place, unfolding a scene reminiscent of a historical picture scroll. At the Shinjo Castle Ruins, the graceful Hagino-Nitayama Deer Dance (Shishi-odori) is performed, adding further color to the festival. The three days, combining bravery and elegance, offer unforgettable excitement to visitors.
Official website (Japanese) ↗Venue
abies (Shinjo Station Front Fureai Plaza)
2-2 Tamonmachi, Shinjo, Yamagata 996-0024
Open in Google Maps ↗