2026 Kenso Festival: A Full-Day Course
The Kenso Festival is held at the Aisu Hall (愛洲の館), on the site of Gokasho Castle Ruins (五ヶ所城址) in Minami-Ise Town, Watarai District, Mie Prefecture. In 2026, it takes place on Sunday, August 23, honoring Aisu Ikōsai, known as the founder of the Aisu Kage-ryu school of swordsmanship, with dedicatory martial arts performances by practitioners connected to the local area. This course lets you fully enjoy the coastal scenery of Minami-Ise Town for a day before attending the festival. Start by taking in the intricate ria coastline of Gokasho Bay (五ヶ所湾), then enjoy a scenic drive across Nanto Bridge (南島大橋), which connects Gokashoura and Hazamaura. Take a break at Taso Shirahama Beach (田曽白浜ビーチ) with its white sand and sea views, and experience the atmosphere of a fishing town at Ōgaura Fishing Port (相賀浦漁港), before heading to Gokasho Castle Ruins and the Aisu Hall in the evening. This is a day to fully savor the history and nature of Minami-Ise at the birthplace of a legendary swordsmanship school.
Schedule
Stunning ria coastline dotted with pearl-farming rafts
A sweeping view of the bay from the bridge connecting Gokashoura and Hazamaura
Take a break with views of the emerald-green sea and white sand at this beach
Experience the lively atmosphere of a fishing town, with boats coming and going
A festival of dedicatory martial arts performances honoring the founder of the Aisu Kage-ryu swordsmanship school
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