Guide
The Suwa Shrine Autumn Festival is a grand, historic autumn celebration dating back to the Tenpo era (1830–1844). A symbol of Shimonita's rich heritage, the festival features sacred processions and the parade of seven massive festival floats (dashi). The sight of these floats moving through the streets brings the energy and traditions of the region to life.
The most thrilling part of this festival is the float parade. A unique highlight is the "Ohayashi competition," where two floats face off in a high-energy musical battle. The skill of the way-makers (Kajibo) is on full display as they bring the massive floats to a sudden, dramatic halt just inches from one another, leaving spectators in awe.
Adding elegance to the power of the floats, female dancers perform graceful dances atop the floats, creating a beautiful contrast between the heavy, robust movement of the floats and the delicate, refined dance. The festival is magical both day and night; the illuminated floats and the echoing sounds of the music during the evening sessions create a truly enchanting atmosphere.
The festival takes place over two days. Please note the following schedule:
The festival takes place throughout the streets of Shimonita Town.
To experience the intense "Ohayashi" music battles up close, it is helpful to check the float route in advance. The illuminated floats at night are a spectacular sight, so we recommend staying until the evening to enjoy the full atmosphere. To fully immerse yourself in this historic tradition, plan your arrival to catch the peak moments.
As this is an outdoor event, please dress for the weather. We highly recommend bringing a light jacket or wrap to stay warm during the evening festivities. For details regarding payment methods, reservations, or English language support, please consult the official website.