Sawasaki Matsuri

Event Overview

The Sawasaki Matsuri is a traditional autumn festival held every year on September 27th in the Sawasaki village, located at the western edge of Sado Island, Niigata. This area is famous for its beautiful coastline, featuring the Sawasaki Cape Lighthouse and the charming sight of traditional 'Tarai-bune' (tub boats) lined up on the shore. The festival plays a vital role in preserving the local heritage, centered around the 'Dai-shishi' (Great Lion) dance, passing the history and spirit of the community to the next generation.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The absolute highlight of this festival is the appearance of the 'Dai-shishi.' From early afternoon through the evening, the lion performs 'Kadotsuke'—a traditional ritual where the performers visit the 27 households in the village. You will also see the 'Gotsu' (ogres/demons) playfully chasing children, adding a sense of humor and lively energy to the event. The sudden appearance of the massive lion and the energetic movements of the ogres are truly overwhelming and spectacular. We recommend watching the dynamic traditional arts unfold against the backdrop of this beautiful, historic landscape.

Schedule

The festival takes place on September 27th. The main events, including the Dai-shishi parade and the Kadotsuke house-visiting ritual, occur from the afternoon through the evening. Because the performance moves from house to house, the excitement shifts to different locations throughout the village at different times.

Venue & Access

The venue is the area around Mikoiwa Shrine in Sawasaki, Sado City, Niigata. Since the village is located at the western tip of Sado Island, traveling by car is the most convenient way to reach the site. It is approximately a 15-minute drive from Ogi Port. Please be mindful of the local residents and the narrow streets while moving around the village.

Tips for Visitors

The Sawasaki Matsuri is a deeply rooted, traditional community event. Since the Dai-shishi performs 'Kadotsuke' by visiting individual homes, there are no fixed spectator seats. The best way to enjoy the festival is to wander through the village and discover the lions and ogres as they appear among the scenery. It is a wonderful way to experience the fusion of nature and tradition.

What to Bring & Etiquette

As this is an outdoor event, please wear comfortable clothing suitable for changing weather. Since you may need to walk around the village to follow the parade, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Please note that you should check in advance regarding specific reservation requirements, local payment methods, or English language support availability.