Hokkaido Gishi Festival

Event Overview

The Hokkaido Gishi Festival is a traditional annual event held on December 14th to commemorate the day of the 47 Ronin's raid. The festival aims to preserve the 'Gishi Spirit' (the spirit of the righteous warriors) for future generations through memorial services. The venue, Kitaizumi Gakuji, is a prestigious temple whose name was granted with permission from the famous Sengaku-ji Temple in Tokyo, making it a profound place to connect with the history of the samurai.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The absolute highlight is the 'Tameshigiri' (sword-testing) ceremony performed within the temple grounds. This powerful ritual, which symbolizes the historical background of the 47 Ronin, is a breathtaking sight for all visitors. Additionally, the memorial services allow you to feel the unwavering willpower and spirit of the warriors who overcame immense hardship to fulfill their duty. Immerse yourself in the deep historical atmosphere of the temple grounds during this special seasonal event.

Schedule

The festival will be held on December 14, 2026. Based on typical schedules, the event is expected to begin around 11:30 and conclude around 14:40. A key moment occurs around 13:30 when the Gishi-tai (warrior procession) arrives at the temple grounds to begin the ceremony. As the timing of the ritual may shift slightly depending on the day's circumstances, we recommend arriving early to secure a good view.

Venue & Access

The event takes place at Kitaizumi Gakuji Temple in Sunagawa, Hokkaido.

• If using the Do-O Expressway, the venue is approximately 10 minutes from the Sunagawa Smart Interchange. For vehicles without ETC, accessing via the Takikawa direction is often smoother than the Sunagawa-Naie route.
• The nearest railway stations are Takikawa Station or Sunagawa Station. We recommend using the route via Takikawa Station for easier access.

Important Information for Visitors

This is a solemn event intended for the quiet observation of historical rituals. As this is a sacred space to honor the spirit of the warriors, please maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor toward the ceremonies and other visitors. Since the event is held in mid-December, please prepare thoroughly for the cold Hokkaido winter.

What to Bring & Etiquette

Mid-December in Hokkaido is extremely cold. Please ensure you bring heavy winter clothing and heat packs (kairo) to stay warm. As the event is held on temple grounds, modest and respectful attire is recommended. Please check the official website for the latest updates and specific rules regarding the ceremony.