Written by JC Team
The procession — actually featuring about 1,200 participants — takes place on the second day of the Nikkō Tōshōgū Shrine Grand Festival in Spring. There is also an autumn version.
The Tōshōgū Shrine was the shrine of the Tokugawa clan who ruled Japan continuously from 1603 to 1868.
What happens?
Starting at 11 a.m., participants dress as warriors in samurai armour and escort mikoshi (portable shoulder-borne shrines) to a hall in the sprawling shrine grounds. The authentic armour and weapons along with the scale of the event offer a unique opportunity to appreciate what the Shōgun’s army must have looked like.
Schedule 2025
On Friday, May 17, the festival will feature traditional rituals, including an offering ceremony and the Yabusame event, where archers in samurai attire perform horseback archery. This event will take place from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. along Omotesando (Yamauchi). The Yoinari Festival will also be held on this day.
On Saturday, May 18, the highlight is the Procession of 1,000 Warriors, a grand parade featuring people dressed as samurai marching through the streets. The procession starts at 11 a.m. at Nitarayama Shrine and arrives at Otabisho by 11:40 a.m. Following this, the Otabisho Festival will take place from 12 p.m. to 12:40 p.m. featuring traditional performances and ceremonies. At 1 p.m., the procession will begin its return journey from Otabisho to Toshogu Shrine, concluding around 1:30 p.m.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.
