Mihara Yassa Matsuri Festival

Event Overview

Mihara Yassa Matsuri is a historic summer festival celebrated in Mihara City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Its origins date back to 1567, when people danced to celebrate the construction of Mihara Castle by the warlord Kobayakawa Takakage. Since the first festival in 1976, it has become a beloved local tradition. The area around JR Mihara Station comes alive with the rhythmic sounds of shamisen, flutes, and drums, accompanied by the energetic shouts of "Yassa, Yassa!"

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main attraction is the "Yassa Dance." On Friday and Saturday evenings, you can witness a breathtaking spectacle as approximately 110 dance teams—totaling about 7,000 participants—parade through the streets near the station. The styles range from traditional "Seicho Yassa" to modern creative variations. On Sunday night, the excitement peaks with the "Yassa Fireworks Festa," featuring powerful 2-shaku fireworks launched from Itozaki Pier. You can also enjoy the quintessential Japanese festival atmosphere at the food stalls, offering treats like yakisoba, shaved ice, and goldfish scooping.

Schedule

The festival is held annually over three days (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) during the second weekend of August. In 2026, the event will take place starting August 7th.

• *Friday & Saturday**: Around 17:00, the Yassa Dance parade begins around the JR Mihara Station area.
• *Sunday**: Daytime events are held throughout the day, followed by the Yassa Fireworks Festa in the evening.

Venue & Access

The main festivities take place around JR Mihara Station. The parade follows a course through the station vicinity, while the fireworks are launched from Itozaki Pier.

Tips for Visitors

During the festival, a "Yassa Stall Village" is set up near the station. We recommend enjoying the sensory experience of a Japanese summer by eating local street food like yakisoba or trying traditional games like goldfish scooping. The festival atmosphere is truly immersive and can also be seen via local Mihara TV broadcasts.

What to Bring & Etiquette

As most events take place in the evening, please wear comfortable clothing. Since you will be visiting many food stalls, it is highly recommended to carry cash (Japanese Yen) for smooth transactions. Please check official sources for the latest updates on rules or any necessary reservations.