The main Shinjo Festival event with elaborate ornamental floats from each town block parading through the streets

About this spot

This summer festival, believed to have been started in 1756 by the daimyo of the Shinjo Clan to wish for recovery from crop failure, has a history of nearly 270 years. It is registered as one of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritages ("Mountain, Hoko, and Yatai Festivals"). On the first day, the 24th, as the evening festival, each town block's elaborate large ornamental floats parade through central Shinjo, moving along the roadside accompanied by drums and flute music. As night falls, the glow of lanterns increases, and the decorative figures on the floats appear to come alive—a sight unique to this evening.

Season & hours

Tips

The area around the procession route will be crowded with spectators; if you want a good viewing spot, head to the roadside early. For families with strollers, the rear of the crowd or wider streets along the route are safer options, as the front row may be difficult with a stroller. Please confirm operational status in case of bad weather from official information.

Best time to visit

From 5:00 PM start. After sunset and the lanterns light up around 6 PM, the festival atmosphere is at its most authentic.

Access & map

Yamagata Prefecture, Central Shinjo