Takeda Summer Kosai Festival

Event Overview

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.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

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.

Schedule

The event is scheduled for July 19, 2026, to July 20, 2026.

• *Morning**: Mikoshi procession (including the Johara Shrine Mikoshi and children's Mikoshi through the streets).
• *Afternoon**: Johara Kagura dance performance at the Johara Town Exchange Plaza.
• *Evening onwards**: Tanabata Children's Night Market.

Venue & Access

The event takes place around the historic castle town of Takeda and the 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.

Participation Tips

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.

Essentials & Etiquette

• *Payment**: Cash is highly recommended for food and shopping at stalls. Credit card availability varies by vendor.
• *Language**: Most local information and announcements are in Japanese.
• *Reservations**: No advance reservation is required for the procession or Kagura, but please check the status of the Night Market on the day.
• *Preparation**: As the event involves walking outdoors and visiting night markets, please dress comfortably for the local environment and weather.