The Genji Ayame Festival is a historic summer tradition in Izunokuni, Shizuoka, dating back to 1934. The festival originated to honor the spirit of Ayame-gozen (also known as Shobu-gozen), the wife of the legendary warrior Minamoto no Yorimasa, who is said to have lived in the Kona area of Izu Nagaoka. Renowned as a woman of incomparable beauty, her legacy brings a sense of elegance and vitality to the Izu Nagaoka hot spring town.
Highlights & Activities
This festival offers a captivating blend of historical atmosphere and modern festivities.
*Illuminations & Scenic Views**: During the festival, beautiful light-ups illuminate the area from Kona Momiji Park to Genji Mountain and Yurakkusu Park. The glowing scenery in the evening is incredibly photogenic.
*Traditional Rituals & Dance**: On July 5th, the Ayame-gozen Memorial Service is held. You can witness local traditional culture through performances such as the ceremonial dances by the Izu Nagaoka watchers.
*Food Stalls & Stage Events**: The streets of the hot spring district and the parks will be lined with numerous food stalls (yatai) offering local delicacies. Stage events for both children and adults will also take place.
*Mikoshi Parade**: As a climax of the festival, a portable shrine (mikoshi) will be paraded through the Onsen-jo Deai Street, bringing high energy to the entire town.
Schedule
The 2025 festival will be held over two days: July 5 (Sat) and July 6 (Sun).
*11:30–12:00**: Ayame-gozen Memorial Service (Location: Kona Momiji Park)
*15:00–20:00**: Kona Dance Plaza (Activities: Kids' events, traditional dances, and food stalls / Location: Kona Momiji Park)
*17:00–20:00**: Nagaoka Festival Plaza (Activities: Stage performances and food stalls / Location: Yurakkusu Park)
*17:00–20:30**: Nagaoka Festival Plaza (Activities: Stage performances and food stalls / Location: Yurakkusu Park)
The festival is spread across several areas around the Izu Nagaoka Onsen district.
*Main Venues**: Ayame-gozen Plaza, Kona Momiji Park, Yurakkusu Park, Genji Mountain Park, and Onsen-jo Deai Street.
*By Train/Bus**: Approximately a 15-minute walk from Izunagaoka Station (Izu Hakone Railway), or take an Izu Hakone Bus to the Nagaoka Sogo Kaikan-mae stop.
*By Car**: Approximately 7km from the Izu Jukan Expressway (Kanuma Tsukamoto IC).
Tips for Visitors
*Photography**: The illuminated landscapes and traditional dances are stunning. We recommend using a wide-angle lens on your smartphone or camera to capture the full scale of the scenery.
*Pedestrian Zones**: During the festival, Onsen-jo Deai Street becomes a pedestrian-only zone (17:30–21:00).
*Parking**: There is no dedicated parking for the festival. We highly recommend using public transportation.
Essentials
*Clothing**: As this is a summer event, please wear breathable, lightweight clothing. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for outdoor activities.
*Payment**: Most food stalls (yatai) primarily accept cash. Please prepare plenty of coins and small denominations (1,000 yen notes) for smooth transactions.
*Reservations**: No entrance fee or advance reservation is required. Feel free to drop by and enjoy the festivities.
*Other**: Please check the official website for the latest updates.
