45th Kyuhan-sai Festival

Event Overview

The 45th Kyuhan-sai is a vital local event that passes the history and traditions of Yurihonjo City down to the next generation. The entire town comes alive with traditional performing arts and local dances. It is a perfect opportunity to experience the essence of a Japanese summer festival while feeling the deep local history.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main attraction is the diverse stage of traditional performing arts. You can witness a unique cultural exchange right before your eyes, featuring local "Kameda Teodori," the "Jangara Nenbutsu Odori" from Iwaki, Fukushima, and the "Morioka Sansa Odori" from Iwate. The program offers something for all ages, from the charming "Children's Teodori" to powerful, traditional dances.

Additionally, special events such as the free opening of the Kameda Castle Sato Yasohachiro Museum are planned. Visiting this museum with its rich historical background will deepen your understanding of the local culture and history beyond the excitement of the festival. The energy and traditional melodies throughout the town are truly captivating.

Date & Schedule

The event is scheduled for July 11, 2026 (based on provided data).

• *10:00 – 12:00**: Children's Teodori (Performances by Iwaki Elementary School and Kameda Nursery School)
• *14:00 – 18:00**: Traditional Performing Arts Stage (Jangara Nenbutsu Odori, Morioka Sansa Odori, Kameda Teodori, Kameda Kagura, etc.)

Venue & Access

The main venues are the Tenshijo Square and the surrounding Kameda area. Road closures will be in effect to accommodate the festival crowds.

• *Main Venues**: Tenshijo Square, Kameda area
• *Traffic Restriction Areas**:
• Amasagi-cho (Kameda Line: from near Amasagi-en to near Daikucho)
• Roads in front of Kameda Branch Office and Tensagi-mura
• *Access**: Public transportation or walking is highly recommended. If driving, please check the restriction times (e.g., 09:30–11:30, 15:45–18:30) in advance and use nearby parking lots.

Tips for Participation

Preparation is key to enjoying the festival to the fullest. The traditional dance performances vary significantly depending on the time of day. The afternoon session from 14:00 to 18:00 features highly dynamic performances like Morioka Sansa Odori and Jangara Nenbutsu Odori, so we recommend arriving early to secure a good spot.

As high temperatures are expected, please take full precautions against heatstroke. To experience the power of the traditional arts up close, it is important to arrive early. Please enjoy the event with respect for the local culture.

What to Bring, Clothing & Etiquette

Clothing & Items

• *Clothing**: Wear comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. Since much of the viewing is outdoors, items like parasols, hats, and hand fans are highly recommended.
• *Items**: Bring cash (for use at local stalls and shops).

Payment Methods

• *Cash**: It is highly recommended to carry cash for local food stalls and shops.

English Support & Reservations

• *English Support**: Limited (primarily through signage).
• *Reservations**: No reservation is required; viewing is free and open to the public.

Etiquette & Precautions

• Please maintain a respectful distance from performers and be considerate of other spectators during the traditional dances.
• Be mindful of your surroundings when walking, as there are traffic restrictions in certain areas.