Wakamatsuri Festival

The Wakamatsuri Festival (和歌まつり, Waka Matsuri), held every year on the second Sunday of May, is one of Wakayama’s most cherished traditions, closely tied to the Kishu Toshogu Shrine. With origins dating back to 1622, the festival celebrates the region's deep spiritual and cultural history through a grand procession of portable shrines, known as mikoshi. While the original festival included both land and sea processions, today’s festivities focus on the powerful land-based parade, with the mikoshi being carried through the streets by enthusiastic participants. The procession serves as a vivid display of the pride and spirit of the Kishu people, drawing both locals and visitors to witness this remarkable tradition.

Once considered one of Japan's Three Great Festivals, Wakamatsuri is a vibrant blend of historical pageantry and local cultural heritage. One of the festival's most captivating features is the kabu performances, dramatic reenactments of historical events that have been passed down through generations since the Edo period. These performances not only showcase the region’s samurai roots but also offer a glimpse into the traditions that have shaped Wakayama’s identity. Despite some traditions gradually fading, efforts by the local community to preserve and revive the festival ensure that Wakamatsuri will continue to shine as a symbol of Wakayama’s rich cultural legacy.