Guida
The Takeda Nijushisho Kiba Gyoretsu is a traditional event held every April 12th to commemorate the death anniversary of the legendary daimyo Takeda Shingen. Held in conjunction with the annual festival of Takeda Shrine, the parade features participants riding horses through the streets of Kofu, embodying the spirit of the era. Seeing the warriors in full attire riding through the city is a powerful spectacle that symbolizes the rich history of this region. It is a rare and precious opportunity to witness the bravery and elegance of the samurai culture up close.
This procession is a tribute to Takeda Shingen, one of Japan's most famous Sengoku-period warlords. By holding the event on the anniversary of his death, the community preserves the cultural legacy of the Takeda clan. The parade of the "24 Generals" serves as a vital link between the past and the present, acting as a ceremonial way to honor the history that is deeply rooted in the identity of Kofu city.
The greatest highlight is the sight of warriors on horseback galloping through the city streets. The movement of the horses and the detailed traditional costumes of the samurai create an intense and immersive atmosphere, often accompanied by cheers from the crowds. The route includes key landmarks such as Takeda Shrine, the Kofu Station North Exit, Asahi-cho Guard, Kofu Station South Exit, Heiwa-dori, Yugame Park, and Maizuru Castle Park. This variety allows spectators to enjoy the parade from different perspectives. In special years, notable figures, such as Olympic medalists, have even participated in the roles of the legendary figures.
The event is held annually on April 12th, a time when the cherry blossoms are typically in full bloom. This creates a stunning backdrop, especially near the starting point at Takeda Shrine and the passing areas like Maizuru Castle Park. The combination of historical military pageantry and the delicate beauty of spring scenery is truly unforgettable. The parade typically runs from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM, allowing you to observe the spectacle from various locations throughout the day.
To fully enjoy the experience, it is highly recommended to check the parade route in advance. You can feel the excitement of the crowd as the procession moves from Takeda Shrine toward the Kofu Station area and eventually to Maiznu Castle Park. As the event often proceeds without major road closures, you can experience the sudden and dramatic appearance of the warriors while enjoying a stroll through the city's everyday scenery.
The area surrounding the route is rich in both history and nature. Takeda Shrine and Maizuru Castle Park are central hubs for the event and offer beautiful landscapes. Additionally, Kofu offers other wonderful attractions like the scenic Shosenkyo Gorge, making it easy to combine this historical festival with a trip to explore local nature and gourmet food.
As the parade takes place outdoors in the city, please dress according to the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. While there are no formal tickets or reservations required to watch the parade, please be mindful of pedestrians and vehicles even if there are no strict traffic restrictions. Regarding payments, while the parade itself is free, please check with local shops and restaurants in advance regarding whether they accept credit cards or only cash. As English-language support may be limited, it is best to confirm your route and schedule beforehand.