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71st Matsudai Hany Sanada Juman-goku Festival

Guide

71st Matsudai Hany Sanada Juman-goku Festival

7 min read

Event Overview

The 71st Matsudai Hany Sanada Juman-goku Festival is a traditional celebration steeped in history, held in the Matsudai area of Nagano City. The festival celebrates the legacy of the famous Sanada clan, a family of legendary warriors. The streets surrounding the Matsudai Castle ruins come alive with energy as people dressed as samurai and noble princesses bring the history of the Matsudai domain to life through grand parades and traditional performances.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The absolute highlight is the 'Matsudai Hany Sanada Juman-goku Procession' held on the afternoon of October 11. You will witness a spectacular parade of over 200 people in full-scale historical costumes. This year is particularly special as it features three sets of legendary Sanada brothers (Nobutsuna & Masayuki, Nobuyuki & Nobushige, and Nobuyoshi & Nobumasa), offering a rare chance to see a dramatic reenactment of the family's history up close.

Additionally, you can enjoy traditional performing arts and dances at the Ninomaru Square near the Matsudai Castle ruins. It is a wonderful way to experience Japanese culture amidst a beautiful, historic atmosphere.

Schedule

The festival takes place over two days: October 10 (Sat) and October 11 (Sun), 2026.

  • *October 10 (Sat)**
  • 15:00–20:00 (Event hours)
  • Around 18:00 (Kawanakajima Kosenjo Fireworks Display: Scheduled to be held at Kawanakajima Kosenjo Historical Park)
  • *October 11 (Sun)**
  • 15:00–20:00 (Event hours)
  • Around 13:00 (Sanada Juman-goku Procession Departure)

Venue & Access

The event is held throughout the Matsudai area, centered around the Matsudai Castle ruins in Nagano City.

  • *Nearest Station**: JR Shinonoi Station (requires bus)
  • *By Bus**: Take a bus bound for 'Matsudai' from the Zenkoji Exit of JR Nagano Station (approx. 30 mins). Get off at 'Matsudai Station' and walk for about 5 minutes.
  • *By Car**: Approximately 10 minutes from the Nagano IC on the Joshin-etsu Expressway.
  • *Parking**: Free municipal sightseeing parking available (Capacity: 60 cars; please note there will be traffic restrictions).

Tips for Visitors

To enjoy the main 'Sanada Juman-goku Procession,' we recommend arriving early to secure a good viewing spot, as it begins around 1:00 PM on October 11. If you are visiting on October 10, you can also enjoy the large-scale fireworks display at the nearby Kawanakajima Kosenjo Historical Park.

What to Bring & Etiquette

  • *Clothing**: As this is an outdoor event, please wear comfortable walking shoes and practical clothing.
  • *Payment & Reservations**: Please check the official website or the event committee directly regarding any reservation requirements or specific payment methods for local vendors.
  • *Manners**: Due to traffic regulations, using public transportation is highly recommended. Please be respectful of the historical site and the local community during the festivities.