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【5-7 June】Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival 2026

  • 4 days ago
  • 2 min read



Experience Samurai History and Traditional Japanese Culture in Kanazawa


Table of Contents



1. What is the Hyakumangoku Festival?

The Hyakumangoku Festival is one of the largest cultural events in Kanazawa, held every June to commemorate Lord Maeda Toshiie’s historic entry into Kanazawa Castle in 1583.

First launched in 1952, the festival has grown into a major cultural celebration featuring samurai parades, tea ceremonies, traditional performances, and historical events unique to Kanazawa.



2. 2026 Festival Dates

The 75th Hyakumangoku Festival will take place from June 5 to June 7, 2026.

The main event, the spectacular Hyakumangoku Parade, will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

Actor Shunsuke Daito will play Lord Maeda Toshiie, while Yuka Sugai will portray Lady Matsu.



3. Festival Highlights

Hyakumangoku Parade

The festival’s main attraction is the grand samurai parade featuring warriors, traditional performers, lion dancers, and historical reenactments.

The parade recreates the prosperity of the Kaga Domain and offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience authentic samurai culture.

Tea Ceremony & Takigi Noh

Traditional tea gatherings and open-air Noh performances allow visitors to experience the elegance and spirituality of Japanese culture.

Traditional Dance Events

Local residents and organizations participate in large-scale traditional dance performances throughout the city.



4. Why International Visitors Love Kanazawa

Kanazawa is often called “Little Kyoto” because of its beautifully preserved historical districts and authentic atmosphere.

International visitors especially appreciate:

  • Authentic Japanese cultural experiences

  • Traditional samurai and geisha districts

  • Less crowded environment compared to Kyoto

  • Excellent cuisine and craftsmanship

  • Easy access from Tokyo via Hokuriku Shinkansen

The Hyakumangoku Festival offers an ideal opportunity to experience all of these attractions at once.



5. Experience Japanese Culture Beyond the Festival

Today, for many travellers, the chance to immerse themselves in the culture rather than simply sightseeing creates unforgettable travel memories.

Kanazawa is one of the best places in Japan to experience authentic Japanese traditions such as tea ceremony and martial arts in a historic setting.



6. Our Tea Ceremony & Martial Arts Programs

We offer hands-on cultural programs designed for international travelers, tour operators, and group tours.


Tea Ceremony Experience

Guests can enjoy authentic matcha tea and Japanese sweets while learning the spirit of Japanese hospitality and etiquette.

English-friendly programs are available for beginners and overseas visitors.



Martial Arts Experience

Participants can discover the philosophy of Japanese samurai culture through martial arts etiquette and practice.

These programs are highly recommended for educational travel, incentive tours, and luxury cultural experiences.



7. Conclusion

The Hyakumangoku Festival is a unique opportunity to discover the history, traditions, and samurai culture of Kanazawa.

By combining the festival with tea ceremony and martial arts experiences, visitors can enjoy a deeper and more memorable journey into Japanese culture.

 
 
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