Kakegawa Matsuri

Event Overview

Kakegawa Matsuri is a grand traditional festival held by 41 neighborhoods across 7 shrines, including Ryuo, Shinmei, Ri, Ikebe, Hakusan, Tsushima, and Kifune Shrines. Set against the backdrop of Kakegawa Castle, the streets are filled with beautifully decorated two-wheeled floats and powerful lion dances. Every three years (years of the Ox, Dragon, Sheep, and Dog), the much larger "Grand Festival" (Daisai) is held, featuring exceptional performances. In other years, the smaller-scale "Small Festival" (Kosai) is celebrated, maintaining deep local roots.

Highlights and How to Enjoy

The charm of Kakegawa Matsuri lies in the fusion of traditional performances and the magnificent floats. You can witness traditional arts like "Kappore" and "Kikari," and during the Grand Festival, see the massive "Dai-shishi" (one of the largest in Japan) and the "Kankaramachi" lion dance, a designated intangible folk cultural property of Shizuoka Prefecture. A major highlight is the "Tegi-awase," where floats pass each other, and the high-tempo "Tekka" music that heightens the excitement. At night, the streets are transformed by the glow of lanterns on the floats, creating a magical atmosphere.

Schedule

The festival takes place over three days from October 10 to October 12 (Note: During the Grand Festival, it continues until Monday, totaling 4 days).

• *October 10**
• 18:00–21:00
• *October 11**
• 09:00–21:00
• *October 12**
• 09:00–21:00

Venue and Access

The main venue is the central area of Kakegawa Castle Town, centered around Kakegawa Station.

• *Nearest Station**: Approximately 2-minute walk from Kakegawa Station (JR Tokaido Main Line or Tenryu Hamanako Railroad).
• *Parking**: Due to traffic restrictions, please use paid parking lots near Kakegawa Station. During the Grand Festival, temporary parking may be available at Kakegawa City Hall, with shuttle buses connecting to the festival area (please check the official website for details).
• *Traffic Restrictions**: Vehicle access to the central area is restricted during the festival. Bus routes may be diverted, so using public transportation is highly recommended.

Tips for Visitors

When the floats or lion dances are passing, please be careful not to cross the path of the procession, as this disrupts the event. Always try to stay behind the moving groups. The central area becomes extremely crowded during the evening, so please allow plenty of time for movement.

What to Bring and Etiquette

• *Clothing**: Since you will be standing to watch the floats pass closely, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• *Payment**: It is convenient to carry cash for food and drinks from the street stalls.
• *Reservations**: No advance reservation is required for performances, but arriving early is recommended to secure a good viewing spot due to expected crowds.
• *Etiquette**: Please be mindful of the procession and avoid obstructing the movement of the festival participants.