Katsuura Taiyo Matsuri Festival

Event Overview

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.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

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.

Schedule

The 2026 festival will take place over four days from September 12 (Fri) to September 15 (Mon/Holiday).

• *Day 1 (Sept 12)**: The festival begins with the 'Mawari' processions in various districts.
• *Day 2 (Sept 13)**: The Katsuura Autumn Joint Festival takes place. Look out for the powerful gathering of multiple shrines and traditional rituals like 'Tainai-kuguri'.
• *Day 3 (Sept 14)**: The streets around the Katsuura Central Shopping Street become lively with float parades and traditional music performances.
• *Day 4 (Sept 15)**: The grand finale, the 'Mikoshi no Funawatashi' ritual, where the shrine is carried onto a fishing boat to cross the sea.

Venue & Access

The main venues are Katsuura Fishing Port, Tomiomisaki Shrine, and the Katsuura Central Shopping Street areas.

• *By Train**: Approximately 10–13 minutes walk from JR Katsuura Station. Public transport is the most convenient option.
• *By Car**: Traffic restrictions may be in place during the festival. As there is no official information on dedicated parking, we recommend checking nearby public parking lots in advance.

Tips for Visitors

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.

Essentials & Etiquette

• *Clothing**: As most activities are outdoors, we recommend comfortable walking shoes and clothing. Bring rain gear if necessary.
• *Payment**: Most food stalls primarily accept cash. Please prepare plenty of Japanese Yen (coins and small bills) for smooth transactions.
• *Reservations**: No advance reservation is required to watch the shrines, but please check the official website for any schedule changes.