Guida
The Takeda Summer Kosai Festival is a traditional event held in the historic castle town of Takeda, Oita Prefecture. The highlight is the procession of the portable shrine (Mikoshi) carrying the deity of Johara Hachiman Shrine through three local shrines: Shinmei-sha, Oka Jinja, and Nishinomiya-sha. While the festival once spanned several days, it is now concentrated into a single day of intense celebration. Visitors can enjoy the spirited shouts of "Chosaja!" from children participating in the procession.
There are three main elements to enjoy: the Mikoshi procession, Kagura dance, and the Night Market.
1. Mikoshi Procession: Watch the sacred portable shrine travel through the town. This deeply rooted local tradition features the deity arriving from a location approximately 7km away from Johara Hachiman Shrine.
2. Johara Kagura: Experience the traditional movements and rhythms of local Kagura dance performed at the Johara Town Exchange Plaza.
3. Tanabata Children's Night Market: As evening falls, the area becomes lively with the Tanabata Night Market, offering a festive atmosphere perfect for a summer stroll.
The event is scheduled for July 19, 2026, to July 20, 2026.
The event takes place around the historic castle town of Takeda and the Johara Town Exchange Plaza.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Venue | Takeda Castle Town (Around Johara Town Exchange Plaza) |
Note: The distance from Johara Hachiman Shrine to the castle town is approximately 7km. Please check local information regarding road conditions and traffic regulations.
The event features different activities depending on the time of day. You can enjoy the energetic Mikoshi procession in the morning, the cultural Kagura performance in the afternoon, and the bustling Night Market in the evening.