Skip to content
Katsuyama Kenka Danjiri Festival

Guide

Katsuyama Kenka Danjiri Festival

7 min read

Event Overview

Katsuyama Kenka Danjiri is a deeply rooted traditional autumn festival held in the historic streets of Katsuyama, Maniwa City, Okay perfect. This festival, which has continued since the Edo period, is the most high-energy moment of the year for the local community. Against a backdrop of historic scenery, ornate 'danjiri' floats parade through the streets, culminating in the breathtaking 'Kenka Danjiri'—a dramatic head-on collision of the heavy floats.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The absolute highlight is the 'Kenka Danjiri.' Watch as massive 2-to-3-ton decorated floats charge forward and collide with a thunderous boom! This clash is a powerful display of strength, much like sumo wrestling, and is truly awe-inspiring. You can also enjoy the 'Gosairei' parade and the high-speed 'Danjiri Tako Sanjo' (uphill race), where floats race up steep slopes. Immerse yourself in the authentic energy of Japanese tradition within this preserved historic district.

Schedule

The festival takes place over two days on October 19 and 20 every year.

October 19

  • *Gosairei Parade**: 11:30 AM~
  • 4 portable shrines and 11 danjiri floats parade from Hayahi Shrine through the historic district to Takada Shrine.
  • *Yoimatsuri (Eve Festival)**: 5:00 PM~
  • 11 danjiri gather at Jonai Hayahi Shrine. This is a preparation phase involving weight checks and inspections rather than full collisions.
  • *Kenka Danjiri (Climax)**: 6:30 PM~
  • Occurs in the area between Shinmachi Clinic and the Central Library parking lot.

October 20

  • *Gosairei Parade**: 1:00 PM~
  • 9 danjiri floats parade through Katsuyama from Hayahi Shrine through the historic district toward the Dan area.
  • *Danjiri Uphill Race**: 3:00 PM~
  • A high-speed race where danjiri tackle a 100m slope in front of Chugoku Katsuyama Station.
  • *Kenka Danjiri (Climax)**: 6:00 PM~
  • Occurs in the area from Yamamoto-cho parking lot to the Katsuyama Culture Center.

Venue & Access

The event is held around the Katsuyama Historic Preservation District in Maniwa, Okayama.

  • *Nearest Station**: A few minutes walk from JR Chugoku-Katsuyama Station.
  • *By Car**: Approximately 20 minutes from the Ochiai IC on the Chugoku Expressway.
  • *Parking**: Please use available parking in the surrounding area (check local details in advance).

Important Tips for Visitors

Due to the intense nature of the collisions, safety is paramount. Barricades are set up at collision sites. Please do not enter restricted areas, as the festival may be halted immediately for safety. Always follow staff instructions and keep a safe distance from the moving floats.

Clothing, Payment & Etiquette

  • *Clothing**: We recommend comfortable clothing and layers to handle temperature changes at night.
  • *Payment**: Please check local food stall availability for cash or card options.
  • *Reservations**: No advance booking is required, but public transport is recommended due to expected crowds.
  • *Etiquette**: Do not cross the barricades. Please check the official website for the latest safety updates.