Guide
The Paul Rusch Festival ~Yatsugatake County Fair~ 2026 is a special festival held at the Seisenryo Plaza in Kiyosato, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture. The festival honors the spirit of Dr. Paul Rusch, a man from Kentucky who dedicated his life to the reconstruction and democratization of post-war Japan, embodying a spirit of frontierism and volunteerism.
A "County Fair" is a traditional American-style harvest festival. Dr. Rusch envisioned this event to encourage those facing harsh realities to keep moving forward with hope. The festival aims to honor his legacy, express gratitude for the harvest, and deepen connections between people across borders and within the Yatsugatake community.
The main highlight is experiencing the atmosphere of a traditional American County Fair right here in the foothills of the beautiful Yatsugatake mountains. Set in the open plaza of Seisenryo, surrounded by the lush nature of Kiyosato, the event offers a unique cultural exchange centered on gratitude for the harvest.
Participants can learn about the values held dear by Dr. Rusch while feeling a sense of connection to both the local community and the international community. Through this American-style festival, you can enjoy warm interactions that transcend cultural differences while enjoying the seasonal beauty of the natural environment.
The event will take place over two days: Saturday, October 17, and Sunday, October 18, 2026. A detailed time schedule is expected to be announced on the official website closer to the event date. Enjoy these two special days sharing the joy of harvest amidst the beautiful autumn scenery of Kiyosato.
The venue is the Seisenryo Plaza, located in Kiyosato, Takane-cho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture. The event takes place in this open, scenic space with breathtaking views of the Yatsugatake highlands.
Access to the venue is available via public transportation or car. While the Kiyosato area is a well-developed tourist destination, please check the latest local information regarding traffic regulations or potential congestion on the day of the event.
This is a cultural festival focused on gratitude and international exchange. Beyond being a simple sightseeing event, it offers a deep experience by connecting with the history and spirit established by Dr. Paul Rusch. You can feel like a part of the Yatsugatake community while experiencing an American-style harvest celebration.
The Seisenryo Plaza is an outdoor area surrounded by nature. Since temperatures in the Yatsugatake/Kiyosato area tend to drop in mid-October, please bring a thick jacket or warm layers for protection against the cold.
Regarding payment, while cash or credit cards may be accepted for food and merchandise, we recommend preparing in advance. English communication is available, but please observe basic etiquette and respect the local natural environment during your visit.