Hamono Matsuri Scarecrow Contest

Event Overview

The "Hamono Matsuri Scarecrow Contest" is a charming community event held in Tosayamada, Kami City, Kochi Prefecture—a region renowned for its traditional "Tosa Uchihamon" (Tosa forged cutlery). This seasonal festival offers a unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and the whimsical charm of "Kaki" (scarecrows). Held at Kagami Park, the event features exhibitions where you can witness the skill of master blacksmiths and enjoy various activities that appeal to all ages.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The biggest draw is the "Yamada Scarecrow Contest." The park will be filled with incredibly expressive and humorous scarecrows that are sure to bring a smile to your face. For those interested in craftsmanship, you can browse and purchase Tosa Uchihamon cutlery or watch professional demonstrations of knife sharpening (additional fee applies). The festival also features lively activities like the "Anpan Eating Contest" and the "Yakiniku Plaza," where you can savor delicious local cuisine from the Monobe River area.

Schedule

The event takes place over two days: October 17 (Sat) and October 18 (Sun), 2026. The operating hours are from 10:00 to 16:00. Please note that the main festivities are held on October 17, 2026.

Venue & Access

The event is held at Kagami Park in Kami City, Kochi Prefecture.

【Access】

Take a bus for approximately 20 minutes from JR Tosayamada Station on the JR Dosan Line and get off at the "Koka Daigaku Iriguchi" stop. Special temporary buses are scheduled to run on the day of the event.

Local Culture & Food

This festival also celebrates the harvest of the region. You can enjoy local delicacies, especially at the "Yakiniku Plaza," where you can try charcoal-grilled BBQ featuring the premium "Tosa Akaushi" (Japanese beef). The atmosphere is even more vibrant as the nearby Kochi University of Technology's festival is often held around the same time.

Tips for Visitors

As the event is held in an outdoor park, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Please bring cash for food, drinks, and paid experiences like professional knife sharpening. For the latest information on English support and reservation requirements, please check the official website.