Elaborate portable shrines and numerous floats parade through the city at this grand Kanto festival

About this spot

The "Ishioka Festival (Hitachi Kokubunji Grand Festival)" centered on Hitachi Kokubunji Shrine and featuring various districts throughout Ishioka. In 2026, the festival runs for three days from September 19 (Saturday) through September 21 (Monday, national holiday), with this course highlighting the opening day of September 19. Counted among Kanto's three major festivals, it features large ornate portable shrines and numerous festival floats parading through various city locations from 9 AM to 9 PM over an extended day. Throughout the day, you can witness the transformation of the historic Hitachi Kokubunji Temple Ruins and Fukutei-dori streetscapes you visited in the morning as they transition from daytime to nighttime festival atmosphere. Vendor stalls vary yearly, so planning meals at city restaurants is recommended.

Season & hours

Tips

During the festival, the city center undergoes extended traffic restrictions and becomes very crowded. Public transportation is recommended. The festival runs from morning to night, so take frequent breaks and stay hydrated. Large portable shrines produce loud sounds, so families with young children should maintain distance for comfortable viewing.

Best time to visit

From 9:00 AM until 9:00 PM. Evening and later, when lantern lights illuminate the streets, creates the most festive atmosphere.

Access & map

Ibaraki Prefecture, Ishioka City - Hitachi Kokubunji Shrine area (various city districts)