Tochio Kenshin Festival (Warrior Procession & Ceremony)

About this event

The "Tochio Kenshin Festival" is held to commemorate the virtues of Lord Uesugi Kenshin, who was feared as the "Tiger of Echigo" during the turbulent Sengoku period. Tochio is the land where Lord Kenshin spent his youth, cultivated his "spirit of righteousness," and fought his first battle, and this festival honors that history. On the day of the event, a warrior procession with the theme of Lord Uesugi Kenshin's raising of an army (Nagao Kagetora's first battle) will take place from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, beginning with a departure ceremony at Chuo Park, parading down Yachi-dori, and concluding with a triumphal ceremony at Akiba Park. In addition to the warrior procession, performances by matchlock gun squads and Echigo Nokizaru ninja troupes will liven up the venue. Furthermore, "Kagetora's Hospitality Tea" will be served at the lively plaza in front of the gate of Joan-ji Temple from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM to welcome visitors. Solemn memorial rituals honoring Lord Kenshin will also be conducted, including sutra chanting, tea offerings, and ceremonial dance offerings. This festival passes down the history of Nagao Kagetora entering Tochio Castle at age 14, spending 6 years there, and fighting his first battle.

Venue

Nagaoka City Tochio Regional Library

Inside Tochiole, 1-67 Chuokoen, Nagaoka, Niigata 940-0222