Kuchi Hachiman-gu Grand Festival

Event Overview

The Kuchi Hachiman-gu Grand Festival is a deeply historic and traditional ritual centered around Kuchi Hachiman-gu Shrine in Sado, Niigata. This festival is jointly held by three local communities, making its diverse range of ritual performances a unique highlight. Visitors can experience the powerful beats of traditional Oni-daiko drumming, the elegant Hanagasa dance, and the thrilling Yabusame (horseback archery), all of which symbolize the rich cultural heritage of Sado. It is a significant event that strengthens community bonds and invites visitors into the vibrant atmosphere of old Japan.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The greatest charm of this festival lies in its diverse ritual performances. The festivities begin with the powerful Oni-daiko drumming, starting with the 'Kadotsuke' (visiting local homes) in the early morning. You can also enjoy the elegant Hanagasa dance from the Koshikoshi district and the 'Toto' dance from the Nozaki district, allowing you to witness various regional traditions in one place. The visual spectacle continues with the divine procession of the Mikoshi shrine, the 'Sagariha' parade by local children, and the high-energy Yabusame horseback archery. For a more mystical experience, the night festival features Kagura dances and Daikoku-mai, offering a different atmosphere under the stars.

Schedule

The festival takes place over two days (September 12–13, 2026).

• *19:00~**: Night festival rituals (Kagura, Daikoku-mai, etc.)
• *Around 19:45~**: Oni-daiko performance
• *05:00 (Early Morning)**: Oni-daiko Kadotsuke (visiting local settlements)
• *13:00~**: Rituals at the shrine, Hanagasa dance, Toto, and Sagariha parade
• *14:00~**: Shio-kumi (Salt-drawing) ritual
• *Around 15:00~**: Oni-daiko, Mikoshi procession, and Yabusame climax
• *After 16:00**: Scheduled end of daytime events

Venue & Access

The venue is Kuchi Hachiman-gu Shrine, located in Shimokuchi, Sado City, Niigata.

• Approximately 15 minutes by car from Ryotsu Port.
• Approximately 15-minute walk from the 'Kawasaki Gakko-mae' bus stop on the Higashi-kaigan Line.

Tips for Visitors

The festival schedule is very detailed, from early morning to evening. We highly recommend arriving in time for the Yabusame and Mikoshi procession in the afternoon, as these are the main highlights. Since the night festival involves rituals in the dark, please prepare for cooler temperatures and bring clothing suitable for nighttime.

What to Bring & Etiquette

As this involves outdoor rituals and walking through local areas, please note the following:

• *Clothing**: Many rituals occur outdoors. Please bring warm clothing for the night/early morning and wear comfortable walking shoes for uneven-ground movement.
• *Payment**: There is no fee to participate, but we recommend carrying cash for local food and drinks.
• *Reservations**: No reservation is required, but please check the official Sado tourism site for any schedule changes.
• *Etiquette**: This is a sacred ritual. Please remain respectful and quiet during ceremonies. When taking photos, ensure you do not obstruct the view of other worshippers.