2026 Itako Gion Festival Full-Day Course
The 'Itako Gion Festival,' a traditional event centered at Soga Kumano Shrine, Itako's tutelary shrine, unfolds along the Maekawa downtown riverbank. In 2026, it runs August 7–9; this course spotlights August 7, opening day. Morning brings waterside walks at Suigo Itako Iris Garden (水郷潮来あやめ園) along the Maekawa River, followed by visits to historic temples—Chosho-ji Temple and Nihonmatsu-ji Temple, known for its hydrangeas, both quintessentially Itako spiritual sites. Late afternoon, enjoy an early dinner and rest at Roadside Station Itako, then at 5 PM, head to the festival grounds around Soga Kumano Shrine. Witness portable shrines and floats parading along the Maekawa riverbank downtown until 8:30 PM—all in summer yukata—a full day immersing yourself in Itako's summer festival spirit.
Schedule
Walking the waterside landscape along the Maekawa River
A quiet moment at Itako's historic temple along the Maekawa River
Wandering the lush grounds of the 'Hydrangea Temple'
Local flavors and an early dinner before the festival begins
The festival main event—portable shrines and floats parading the downtown Maekawa riverbank
Photos6
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