The Shimada Mage Matsuri is a traditional festival celebrating the "Shimada-mage," a classic Japanese hairstyle. This event preserves the legacy of the beautiful hair culture reportedly developed by the legendary figure Komori Komori from Shimada. The highlight of the festival is the sight of the "Mage-musume" (hair maidens) dressed in matching yukata, performing traditional dances as they parade through the streets, embodying the essence of Japanese aesthetic beauty.
Highlights & How to Enjoy
The main attraction is the elegant procession of young women showcasing various intricate hairstyles, such as the "Bunkin Takashimada" and "Yuiwatada Shimada," paired with beautiful yukatas. You can also witness live demonstrations of traditional Japanese hair styling. This is a rare opportunity to observe the delicate hand movements and precise techniques used in this craft. Additionally, the solemn memorial services at Uda-ji Temple and the ritual dances performed amidst the historic streetscape are sure to captivate all visitors.
Schedule
The festival will be held on September 21, 2025. The main itinerary is as follows:
*12:00–12:30**: Memorial Service and Goma Fire Ritual (Venue: Uda-ji Temple)
*12:45–13:15**: Dedication Dance and Ceremony (Venue: Uda-ji Temple)
*14:10–14:30**: Mage Procession & Traditional Dance (Venue: Kawagoe Kaido Street)
*14:30–15:00**: Live Japanese Hair Styling Demonstration (Venue: Kawagoe Kaido Street)
*15:00–16:00**: Mage Procession & Traditional Dance (Venue: Kawagoe Kaido Street)
Venue & Access
The event takes place in the Shimada area (around Uda-ji Temple and Kawagoe Kaido).
*Access to Uda-ji Temple**: Take a community bus (Otsu Line/Tenjoku-ji direction) from JR Shimada Station. Get off at the "Shimada City General Medical Center" stop, followed by a 2-minute walk. The bus fare is 200 JPY.
*Parking**: There is no parking available near Uda-ji Temple. You may use the "Kawagoe Hiroba Parking (Free)" near Kawagoe Kaido, but spaces are limited. We strongly recommend using public transport or the free shuttle bus.
*Free Shuttle Bus**: A free shuttle service will operate between Shimada Station (South Exit), Obitori Stage, Uda-ji Temple, and Kawagoe Kaido.
Tips for Visitors
For the best view of the hair styling demonstrations and the procession, we recommend positioning yourself along Kawagoe Kaido. The live demonstration offers a close-up look at the intricate tools and techniques used in traditional Japanese hairstyling. In the event of rain, the traditional dances are scheduled to move to the Museum Annex after the ceremonies at Uda-ji Temple.
Clothing & Etiquette
*Clothing**: As the event involves much walking outdoors, please wear comfortable walking shoes. We also recommend bringing rain gear in case of unexpected weather changes.
*Etiquette**: Please do not climb on stone lanterns or other structures at the temple (Uda-ji). For safety reasons, the use of drones or any remote-controlled flying devices is strictly prohibited. Please be mindful of locals and take your trash home with you.
*Photography**: Please refrain from taking photos in a way that obstructs traffic on the roads.
