Mito Komon Festival

Event Overview

The Mito Komon Festival is a traditional celebration held in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture, to honor Tokugawa Mitsukuni, the second lord of the Mito domain. Originally started in 1961 as the "Mito Tanabata Komon Festival," it has become a quintessential summer tradition in the region. Since its revitalization in 2019, the festival has focused on deeply rooted local traditions, such as the lantern processions and the Furusato Mikoshi parade, serving as a vital event to pass down the history and culture of Mito to the modern era.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The greatest highlights of this festival are the "Chochin (Lantern) Parade," which evokes a sense of historical elegance, and the "Furusato Mikoshi Togyo," a portable shrine procession that symbolizes the intense energy of the local community. While the festival was once famous for featuring characters from popular TV dramas, it now focuses on a more authentic, community-based traditional format, allowing you to experience the true essence of Mito's culture. Additionally, the festivities are often accompanied by the Mito Kairakuen Fireworks Display near Lake Senba, offering a stunning spectacle of light across the night sky.

Schedule

This event is held annually during the first weekend of August. For 2027, the main festivities are scheduled for the first Saturday and Sunday of August.

• *Day 1**: The Chochin (Lantern) Parade takes place.
• *Day 2**: The Furusato Mikoshi (Portable Shrine) procession takes place.

Venue & Access

The main festivities take place around the Kamiichi Street area in central Mito.

• *Main Venue**: Kamiichi area, Mito City (approx. 5-minute walk from Mito Station)
• *Lake Senba Venue (Fireworks related)**: Lakeside of Lake Senba (approx. 15-minute walk from Mito Station)
• Within walking distance from JR Joban Line "Mito Station."
• You can also take the "Mito-go" highway bus from Tokyo Station (Yaesu South Exit, Platform 4) directly to the destination.

Tips for Visitors

The area around Kamiichi Street becomes incredibly lively during the festival. To get a close-up view of the lantern parade and the portable shrine procession, we recommend arriving at the venue early. During the event, you may also find rest areas known as "Komon-sama no Oyasumi-dokoro" within the shopping district, where you can take a break and soak in the festive atmosphere.

What to Bring & Etiquette

As this is a summer event, heat precautions are essential. Please wear breathable clothing and bring plenty of water for hydration. For specific details regarding reservations, local payment methods, or English language support, please check the official website.