Guide
The Takeda Nijushi-sho Kiba Gyoretsu is a traditional event held every April 12th to mark the death anniversary of the legendary daimyo Takeda Shingen. Held in conjunction with the annual festival of Takeda Shrine, the parade features a striking procession of samurai on horseback parading through the streets of Kofu. Seeing the warriors mounted on horses as they traverse the city is a powerful, symbolic event that brings the region's history to life. It offers a rare opportunity to observe the brave spirit of the samurai up close.
This procession commemorates Takeda Shingen, one of Japan's most famous military commanders of the Sengoku period. Held on April 12th, the anniversary of his death, the event is an integral part of the Takeda Shrine's annual festival and a deeply rooted cultural tradition. The parade of the '24 Generals of Takeda' serves as a vital way to pass down historical context to the modern era, acting as a ceremonial tribute to the heritage of the Kofu region.
The greatest highlight is the cavalry procession itself, where samurai on horseback march through the city. The sight of the warriors in traditional attire and the movement of the horses are incredibly powerful, often accompanied by cheers from the crowds along the route. The parade route includes key locations such as Takeda Shrine, Kofu Station North Exit, Asahicho Guard, Kofu Station South Exit, Heiwadori, Ukima Park, and Maizuru Castle Park. This allows spectators to enjoy the spectacle from various perspectives. Occasionally, notable local figures participate; for instance, Olympic bronze medalist Kenshi Ehara has previously played the role of Takeda Shingen.
The event takes place annually on April 12th. This timing is perfect for sightseeing, as the cherry blossoms are typically in full bloom around Takeda Shrine and the Maizuru Castle Park area. This creates a breathtaking scene where historical tradition meets seasonal natural beauty. The parade schedule runs from 10:30 to 16:30, allowing you to observe the procession from various points in the city throughout the morning and afternoon.
When planning your visit, it is highly recommended to check the parade route in advance. You can experience the energy of the crowd as the procession moves from Takeda Shrine through the Kofu Station area toward Maizuru Castle Park. As the parade often proceeds without major traffic restrictions, you can enjoy the sudden, dramatic appearance of the samurai while walking through the city's everyday-life scenery.
The area surrounding the parade route is rich in both history and nature. Takeda Shrine and Maizuru Castle Park are central hubs for the event and offer beautiful landscapes. Additionally, Kofu features scenic natural spots like the Shosenkyo Gorge and various local gourmet areas, making it easy to combine the festival with other sightseeing-filled days.
Since the parade takes place outdoors in the streets, please dress according to the weather of the day. Even if there are no specific notices regarding traffic restrictions, please be mindful of pedestrians and vehicles while watching. There is no fee or reservation required to view the procession. However, for dining or transportation in the area, we recommend checking if local shops accept credit cards or transit IC cards, as many small establishments may be cash-only. Please note that English-language support and signage may be limited, so it is helpful to confirm your route in advance.