Ryujin Matsuri (Dragon God Festival)

Event Overview

Ryujin Matsuri is a traditional summer festival in Miyota, Nagano, fueled by the passion of the local community and inspired by the legendary 'Saburo Koga' tale. The ceremony begins with the awakening of the Dragon God at the pond of Shinraku-ji Temple, a site steeped in local lore. This festival has a distinguished history, having even featured in events related to the Nagano Winter Olympics and Winter Paralympics. Today, it remains a signature event that continues to captify visitors from both within Japan and abroad.

Highlights & What to Expect

The absolute highlight of this festival is the 'Ryujin no Mai' (Dragon God Dance). Accompanied by the thunderous and heroic beats of the Ryujin Taiko ensemble 'Kokyo,' a massive 45m-long dragon and a 30m-tall 'Maiko' (dancer) perform a spectacular dance. The moment the dragon 'awakens' amidst the sound of firecrackers, spectators are instantly transported into a world of legend. Another captivating sight is the dance of the 'Hime-ryu' (Princess Dragon) performed by women, showcasing a unique blend of strength and elegance.

Schedule

The festival will be held on July 25, 2026. The festivities begin with the 'Ryujin Kaigan-shiki' (Dragon God Awakening Ceremony) at the legendary Shinraku-ji Temple. As the rhythmic drumming intensifies, the sleeping Dragon God is said to awaken, leading the festival to its exhilarating climax. Please check the official website or local signage closer to the date for a detailed time schedule.

Venue & Access

The festival takes place across several areas, including Shinraku-ji Temple, the Miyota Station Plaza, and Ryujin-no-mori Park.

• *By Public Transport**: Very easy to access; it is only about a 5-minute walk from Miyota Station on the Shinano Railway.
• *By Car**: Approximately a 10-minute drive from the Saku IC on the Joshin-etsu Expressway via Prefectural Route 9.

Travel Tips

The festival flows dynamically from Shinraku-ji Temple through to the station plaza and the park. Because the event attracts large crowds, we recommend arriving early to secure a good viewing spot. Learning a bit about the local legend beforehand will deepen your appreciation for the performance.

What to Bring & Etiquette

As this is an outdoor event, please wear comfortable clothing suitable for walking. We also recommend bringing rain gear or sun protection depending on the weather. Regarding parking, municipal parking lots near the Miyota Station North Exit are available (some areas may require a fee). Please check the official website for the latest rules and details.