2026 Iwafune Grand Festival (Reiwa 8)

About this event

Held across the Iwafune area of Murakami City, Niigata Prefecture, the 'Reiwa 8 Iwafune Grand Festival' is a magnificent ritual fitting for the port town of Iwafune. It is the festival of Iwafune Shrine, also known as 'Funagakoi,' and serves as an autumn festival concluding the year in this region, giving thanks for the year's blessings of the sea, the mountains, and all livelihoods. Originating from the legend that the enshrined deity arrived at this land on a 'stone boat,' nine gorgeous festival floats parade through the town of Iwafune. Designated as a Niigata Prefecture Intangible Folk Cultural Property in 1988 (Showa 63), it allows visitors to savor the historic festival atmosphere. On the eve festival on Sunday, October 18, the pulling of neighborhood floats will take place from the afternoon, followed by the main festival on Monday, October 19. Street stalls are also customarily set up from October 18 to 20.

Venue

Iwafune

Iwafune, Murakami, Niigata 958-0000