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Kakegawa Matsuri Festival

Guide

Kakegawa Matsuri Festival

7 min read

Event Overview

Kakegawa Matsuri is a traditional joint festival held by seven local shrines, including Ryuobi, Shinmei, and others, in Kakegawa City, Shizuoka. The streets of the historic Kakegawa Castle town come alive with beautifully decorated two-wheeled floats and powerful lion dances. The festival features a massive 'Grand Festival' every three years (in the years of the Ox, Dragon, Sheep, and Dog), known for its grand scale and special performances. In other years, it is held as a smaller, more community-focused 'Small Festival.'

Highlights and How to Enjoy

The true charm of Kakegawa Matsuri lies in the fusion of traditional performing arts and the majestic floats. You can witness traditional arts like 'Kappore' and 'Kiyari,' and during the Grand Festival, the legendary 'Dai-shishi' (Great Lion)—one of the largest in Japan—and the 'Kankaramachi' lion dance, a designated intangible folk cultural property of Shizuoka. Another highlight is 'Tegi-awase,' where floats pass each other, and the high-tempo 'Tekka' music that builds incredible excitement. At night, the streets are illuminated by the warm glow of lanterns on the floats, creating a magical atmosphere.

Schedule

The festival takes place over three days from October 10 to October 12 (Note: During the Grand Festival, it extends to 4 days until Monday).

  • *October 10**
  • 18:00–21:00
  • *October 11**
  • 09:00–21:00
  • *October 12**
  • 09:00–21:00

Venue and Access

The main festivities are centered around the Kakegawa Station North Exit area in the Kakegawa Castle town district.

  • *Nearest Station**: JR Tokaido Line or Tenryu Hamanako Railroad, 'Kakegawa Station' (approx. 2-minute walk).
  • *Parking**: Due to traffic restrictions, please use paid parking lots near Kakegawa Station. During the Grand Festival, temporary parking may be available at Kakegawa City Hall, with shuttle buses to the festival area (check official details).
  • *Traffic Restrictions**: The central area will be closed to vehicles. Bus routes will be diverted, so using public transportation is highly recommended.

Tips for Visitors

When the floats or lion dances are passing, please be careful not to cross in front of the procession, as this disrupts the event. Always stay behind the group when spectating. The central area becomes extremely crowded during the evening, so please allow plenty of time for movement.

Essentials and Etiquette

  • *Clothing**: Since you will be standing to watch the floats pass closely, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
  • *Payment**: It is best to carry cash for food and drinks from the various street stalls.
  • *Reservations**: No advance reservations are required for performances like the Great Lion dance, but arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
  • *Etiquette**: Please be mindful of the procession and avoid obstructing the path of the participants.