Achi Shrine Autumn Grand Festival

Event Overview

The Achi Shrine Autumn Grand Festival is a traditional ritual held annually at Achi Shrine, located near the historic streets of Kurashiki, Okayama. This festival has been a cherished local tradition since the Edo period, honoring the deities of Achi Shrine, including the three goddesses of Munakata.

The festival takes place on the third Sunday of October and the preceding Saturday. On Saturday, beautiful ritual dances and traditional performing arts are presented at the shrine's main hall. On Sunday, the "Goshinko Procession" features a parade of portable shrines through the town. It is a wonderful opportunity to experience deep Japanese culture within the historic atmosphere of the Kurashiki Bikan District.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

Traditional Performing Arts

The highlight of the festival is the various ritual performances dedicated to the deities. You can enjoy elegant dances like the "Dance of the Three Goddesses," the "Urashu no Mai" performed by shrine maidens, and the energetic "Children's Bitchu Kagura." The powerful sounds of the "Kurashiki Tenryo Taiko" drums and traditional festival music (Ohashi) will surely captivate you.

Lively Festival Atmosphere

Starting Saturday evening, the shrine grounds come alive with "Kami-nigoi." The town is filled with energy as the portable shrines are paraded through the area, creating a beautiful scene where the festive spirit blends seamlessly with the historic white-walled architecture.

The Grand Procession

On Sunday morning, the climax of the festival occurs with the Goshinko Procession. A parade moves through the streets, carrying the spirits of the deities in portable shrines. This-procession is a powerful symbol of local faith and tradition.

Schedule

The event is held over two days.

Saturday, October 17, 2026

Various ritual performances at the shrine hall:

• 17:00 Dance of the Three Goddesses
• 17:10 Urashu no Mai (performed by shrine maidens)
• 17:30 Children's Bitchu Kagura
• 18:30 Festival Music and Lion Dance
• 19:00 Kurashiki Tenryo Taiko Drumming
• Around 19:30 End of performances

Sacred Procession:

• 07:00 Departure Ceremony
• 08:00–16:30 Goshinko Procession

Venue & Access

The venue is Achi Shrine, located in the historic area of Kurashiki.

Access

• *Public Transport**: Approximately a 15-minute walk from JR Kurashiki Station. A stroll from the station is highly recommended.
• *By Car**: About 15–20 minutes from the Kurashiki IC on the Sanyo Expressway. Parking is available in the surrounding area.