Skip to content
Aizu Tajima Gion Festival

Guide

Aizu Tajima Gion Festival

5 min read

Event Overview

The Aizu Tajima Gion Festival is a historic tradition from the Tajima district of Minami-Aizu, Fukushima. Recognized as one of Japan's three great Gion festivals, it is a designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. The festival is famous for its magnificent and powerful atmosphere, reflecting the pride and spirit of the region.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The absolute highlight is the "Nanahokai" procession, also known as the "Bride Procession." Seeing approximately 40 brides dressed in exquisite, traditional ceremonial attire is a breathtaking and elegant sight. Another must-see is the "Yatai Kabuki," which preserves the tradition of children's theater, and the energetic "Ooyatai" float parades. As evening falls, the glowing lanterns along the streets create a magical, mystical atmosphere that heightens the excitement.

Schedule

The festival takes place over three days, with different rituals and parades each day.

  • *July 22 (Main Festival)**
  • 10:00 AM: Rituals and Sacred Dance
  • 11:45 AM: Opening Ceremony
  • 4:00 PM: Ooya Procession, Ooya Benmai Procession, Float Parades, and Kabuki Performance
  • *July 23 (Procession Day)**
  • Approx. 7:50 AM – 8:30 AM: Nanahokai (Bride Procession)
  • 10:30 AM: Mikoshi (Portable Shrine) Procession
  • 10:40 AM: Taiko Drumming Performance
  • 4:00 PM: Ooya Procession, Float Parades, and Kabuki Performance
  • *July 24 (Sacred Kagura Festival)**
  • 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Taita Kagura Performance (at Kagura-den)

Venue & Access

The festivities take place throughout the Tajima district in Minami-Aizu, Fukushima.

  • *By Train**: From Asakusa Station (Tobu Railway), travel via Aizu-Kinugawa Station (approx. 3 hours 15 minutes) to Aizu-Tajima Station.
  • *By Car**: Approximately 91km from Utsunomiya IC via Imaichi (along R121), or 56km from Nishi-Nasuno IC via Shiobara/Kamimatsuto (via R400).

Pro-Tips for Visitors

The iconic "Nanahokai" bride procession occurs early in the morning on July 23. Since this is the most visually stunning part of the festival, we recommend arriving early to secure a good view. The float parades and Kabuki performances reach their peak energy in the afternoon.

What to Bring & Etiquette

As the event is held outdoors, please wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Please note that schedules may change due to weather conditions.