Lantern-Decorated Festival Floats Advance Through the Night River - A Festival Designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan

About this spot

The Sunaoshi Festival, held for over 400 years as the ritual of Tomi-Yoshitakahayasujinja and Hassensen Shrine, is designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan. 2026 will see the festival held on August 1st (Saturday) and 2nd (Sunday), and we will visit the first day. As night falls, lantern-decorated festival floats called Sharaku boats slowly advance along the Kanie River, and countless lights reflected in the water create a fantastic scene. This is a rare opportunity to carefully observe the festival form unique to the water village of the Kiso Three Rivers basin with your family. Since the presence of food stalls varies from year to year, it is recommended to remember the dinner you prepared beforehand and quietly savor the atmosphere of the river festival.

Season & hours

Tips

Viewing spaces along the river are limited, so early spot-securing is recommended. At night, the ground becomes dark, so a flashlight or smartphone light is helpful. Traffic restrictions may be in place, so public transportation or walking access is recommended.

Best time to visit

From 5 PM onwards. After sunset, with the ship lanterns standing out, 7 PM and later is most impressive.

Access & map

Aichi Prefecture, Atsumi County, Kanie Town · Tomi-Yoshitakahayasujinja/Hassensen Shrine vicinity