Guida
The Katsuura Taiyo Matsuri is a historic autumn festival held annually in Katsuura City, Chiba Prefecture, with roots dating back to the late Edo period. Originally held separately by various districts, the festival was unified in 1979 into the current 'Katsuura Autumn Joint Festival.' Deeply connected to its heritage as a fishing town, the event prays for bountiful catches and safe voyages, fueled by the intense energy and strong community bonds of the local residents.
The absolute highlight of this festival is the sight of the powerful portable shrines (mikoshi). You will see the 'momi' technique, where the shrine is shaken violently to the rhythmic shouts of 'Hora, Dairyo!', and the 'sashi' technique, where it is lifted high into the air. The parade of elaborately carved floats (dashi) through the streets is also a breathtaking spectacle.
Specifically, the climax of the festival, the 'Mikoshi no Funawatashi' (Shrine Boat Transfer), is a sacred and moving sight. Watching the portable shrine being transferred from the shore to a fishing boat at Katsuura Fishing Port to travel across the sea is a unique traditional landscape found only in this region. Additionally, the Katsuura Central Shopping Street comes alive with numerous food stalls offering fresh local seafood.
The 2026 festival will take place over four days from September 12 (Fri) to September 15 (Mon/Holiday).
The main venues are Katsuura Fishing Port, Tomiomisaki Shrine, and the Katsuura Central Shopping Street areas.
To fully enjoy the energy, it is important to check the route in advance. The viewing style varies depending on whether you are watching the joint festival or the boat transfer. Expect large crowds, so please plan your movements with plenty of time. Listening to the traditional chants and the rhythm of the festival will deepen your cultural experience.