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Satsumasendai Hanya Matsuri Festival

Guide

Satsumasendai Hanya Matsuri Festival

6 min read

Event Overview

The Satsumasendai Hanya Matsuri is a deeply rooted, high-energy traditional festival held in the heart of Satsumasendai City, Kagoshima Prefecture. The event features a diverse program, including grand parades, street performances, and the iconic "Satsumasendai Rekishi Emaki Gyoretsu" (Historical Picture Scroll Procession). It is a visually stunning and energetic event where you can see performers in traditional costumes and the striking presence of brave samurai warriors.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The greatest thrill of this festival is the breathtaking atmosphere that envelops the entire town. A must-see is the grand parade featuring musical troupes and deities, alongside the historical procession that brings the past to life. The festival reaches its climax with the "Hanya Odori" (Hanya Dance), a high-energy performance where the distinction between performer and spectator disappears in a shared moment of excitement. This is a rare opportunity to see historical costumes and samurai-style attire up close.

Schedule

The festival is typically held in early November. Please note that the schedule is subject to change.

  • *12:00–13:40**: Parade (Musical troupes, deities, etc.), street performances, and the Satsumasendai Historical Procession
  • *14:00–15:50**: Hanya Odori (Hanya Dance)
  • *15:55**: Banzai Sankatsu (Celebratory Shout)

Venue & Access

The event takes place along a 1.5km stretch of Route 3, from Mukoda to Oomichi.

Venue Area

  • Route 3 (Between Chuo Kominkan Intersection and Sendai Chuo Koban-mae Intersection)
  • Main Headquarters: Route 3 (Oomichi side)

How to Get There

  • *By Train**: Approximately 10 minutes on foot from JR Satsuma-Sendai Station.
  • *By Air/Bus**: Take an airport bus from Kagoshima Airport to Satsuma-Sendai Station (approx. 70 minutes).
  • *By Car**: Approx. 30 mins from Kagoshima IC, 3 hours 40 mins from Fukuoka IC, or 2 hours 30 mins from Miyazaki IC.

Tips for Visitors

Large-scale traffic restrictions will be in place around Route 3 during the event. Road closures are scheduled from 11:45 to 16:30, which may limit access to the area. We recommend arriving early to secure a good spot for the parade and procession. Please note that the use of drones is strictly prohibited.

Essentials: Clothing, Payment & Etiquette

  • *Clothing**: Since you will be watching parades and processions outdoors for an extended period, we recommend wearing comfortable, walking-friendly shoes.
  • *Payment**: Please check the official website for specific details regarding any vendor-related payments.
  • *Reservations**: No advance reservations are required, but we suggest arriving early due to expected crowds.
  • *Etiquette**: The use of drones for photography or flight is strictly prohibited. Please be mindful of other spectators around you.