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45th Kyuhan-sai Festival

Guide

45th Kyuhan-sai Festival

8 min read

Event Overview

The 45th Kyuhan-sai is a significant local event in Yurihonjo City that preserves and passes down the region's history and traditions to future generations. The entire town comes alive with the energy of traditional dances and local festivities, offering a true taste of a Japanese summer festival.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main attraction is the diverse range of traditional performing arts stages. You can witness a unique cultural exchange through performances such as the local "Kameda Te-odori," the "Jangara Nenbutsu Odori" from Iwaki (Fukushima), and the famous "Morioka Sansa Odori" from Iwate. The program offers something for everyone, from the charming "Kodomo Te-odori" performed by local children to powerful, high-energy traditional dances.

Additionally, special events like the free opening of the Kameda-jo Sato Yasohachi Art Museum are planned. Visiting this museum provides a deeper understanding of the local history and culture alongside the excitement of the festival. The rhythmic sounds and the palpable heat of the festivities are sure to captivate every visitor.

Schedule

Scheduled for July 11, 2026.

  • *10:00 – 12:00**: Kodomo Te-odori (Performances by Iwaki Elementary School and Kameda Nursery School)
  • *14:00 – 18:00**: Traditional Performing Arts Stage (Featuring Jangara Nenbutsu Odori, Morioka Sansa Odori, Kameda Te-odori, Kameda Kagura, and more)

Venue & Access

The main festivities take place at the Tenshijo-mae Plaza and throughout the Kameda area.

  • *Main Venue**: Tenshijo-mae Plaza and the surrounding Kameda area
  • *Traffic Restrictions**: Vehicle access will be restricted in the following areas:
  • Amasagi-cho (Kameda City Road: from near Amasagi-en to Daiku-cho)
  • Roads near the Kameda Branch Office and Tenshigo-mura
  • *Access**: Public transportation or walking is highly recommended. If driving, please check the restriction times (e.g., 09:30–11:30 and 15:45–18:30) and use nearby parking lots.

Tips for Visitors

To make the most of your experience, preparation is key. The content of the performances varies significantly by time; the afternoon session (14:00–18:00) features the most dynamic dances like Morioka Sansa Odori, so we recommend arriving early to secure a good view.

As temperatures are expected to be high, please take precautions against heatstroke. We recommend bringing items to stay cool and being mindful of the local culture and traditions while enjoying the festivities.

What to Bring, Clothing & Etiquette

Clothing & Essentials

  • *Clothing**: Wear comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Items like parasols, hats, and hand fans are highly recommended for heat protection.
  • *What to bring**: Please bring cash for use at local food stalls and vendors.

Payment Methods

  • *Cash**: We strongly recommend carrying cash for purchases at nearby stalls and facilities.

English Support & Reservations

  • *English Support**: Limited (primarily through signage and notices).
  • *Reservations**: No reservation is required; viewing is free and open to the public.

Etiquette & Safety

  • Please maintain a respectful distance from performers and be mindful of other spectators during the dances.
  • Be cautious when walking in areas with traffic restrictions and follow all safety signs.