Written by JC Team
Held annually since 1609, this three day festival in the Japan Sea port town of Sakata is renowned for its giant lion head floats and unique wheeled floats.
What happens?
The festival was originally known as the Sanno Festival but was renamed to the Sakata Festival in commemoration of a major conflagration in the town in 1976. Stalls line the parade route selling food, drinks, and crafts.
Schedule
The 2026 festival begins on May 15 with a safety prayer ceremony at 3 p.m. in Nakamachi Mall. From May 15 to 22, two shrine inns will be open: the Upper Shrine Inn at the Shimonai-cho Community Center and the Lower Shrine Inn at Inari Shrine.
On May 19, there will be an evening festival from 5 p.m. in front of the former Shimizuya. The main festival happens on May 20, starting with a ceremony at noon, then a procession at 1 p.m., followed by the Sakata Historical Procession and float procession from 1:30 p.m. The Sakata Oiran Procession starts at 3:30 p.m.
The final event is the unofficial festival on May 21. There will also be 60 paid viewing seats in front of the former Shimizuya for the main festival.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.
