Immerse yourself in the centuries-old splendor of Shinjo Matsuri — a feast for the senses in the heart of Yamagata.
What happens?
Yamagata’s Shinjo Festival is one of the most vibrant festivals in northern Japan. It is recognized as part of Japan’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.
This event transforms the streets of Shinjo with parades of colorful floats, taiko drumming, and traditional dances. Don’t miss the mesmerizing floats, each adorned with characters from kabuki and Japanese folklore, as they compete in grandeur.
History
With a history spanning over 260 years, Shinjo Matsuri began in 1756 to lift the locals’ spirits after a devastating famine. The festival features grand floats and ancient dance performances, embodying the passion and heritage of Shinjo’s people.
Schedule 2024
Here are some of the highlights:
August 24 (Saturday)
This is the day of the evening festival.
- 10:00: Tozawa Shrine Annual Festival at Tozawa Shrine
- 8:10: Dedication of Shinjo music at Tozawa Shrine, Gokoku Shrine, and Tenmangu Shrine
- 9:30-11:00: Joint concert at Shinjo Station Community Square (if rain: Yumeria “Flower and Green Exchange Square”)
- 18:00-18:20: Lighting ceremony at Chuo Street Intersection
- 18:30-20:30: Float procession from the central shopping district to Shinjo Station
August 25 (Sunday)
This is the day of the main festival, honmatsuri.
- 7:00: Tenmangu Shrine Annual Festival at Tenmangu Shrine
- 8:30: Festival procession departure ceremony at Tenmangu Shrine Square
- 9:00-15:45: Mikoshi (portable shrine procession) from Mogami Park through various city locations, including Ishikawacho Gokigen Street, and returning to Mogami Park
- 10:00-16:00: Float procession starting from the Senior Citizens Welfare Center
August 26 (Monday)
This day is designated as the post-festival, with a variety of performances on offer.
- 9:00: Gokoku Shrine Annual Festival at Gokoku Shrine
- 9:30-11:30: Kowaka Ren-bayashi Performance Competition at Yumeria “Flower and Green Exchange Square”
- 8:30-13:00: Dedication Judo Tournament at Shinjo Higashi High School Martial Arts Hall
- 9:30-16:00: Dedication Archery Tournament at Higashiyama Martial Arts Hall
- 10:00-11:00:Deer dance at Mogami Park
- 10:00-16:00: Decorated floats (20 in total) in front of the station, Honmachi, Omachi, and Chuo-dori
- 13:00-13:15: Deer dance
- 17:30-19:30: Karaoke show in Kirayaka Bank Shinjo Branch Parking Lot
Entry and tickets
It is free to see the festival, but if you want a seat to enjoy the performances and floats, then prices start at ¥2,500 for August 24.
How to get there
The Shinjo Festival is held within walking distance from Shinjo Station, easily accessible via the Yamagata Shinkansen from Tokyo in about 3 hours and 30 minutes.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.
