The Takayama Matsuri (Takayama Festival), held twice a year in spring and autumn, is a magnificent event that symbolizes Takayama’s rich traditions and is counted among Japan’s three most beautiful festivals.
Did you know that the spring and autumn festivals differ? The spring festival, also called the Sanno Matsuri, is associated with Hie Jinja (Hie Shrine) near the foot of Castle Mountain. Meanwhile, the autumn festival, known as the Hachiman Matsuri, is held at Sakurayama Hachimangu, located northeast of the Old Town. Both festivals feature different parade areas and distinct groups of festival floats, each offering a spectacular sight.
Even if your travel dates don’t coincide with these festivals, you can still admire the intricately decorated floats and learn about their history at the Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan, located within the grounds of Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine.
This museum permanently displays the authentic festival floats used during the autumn Takayama Festival. Eleven floats are shown in rotation, three times a year. These floats are not replicas; each float weighs around 2.5 tons, offering visitors a rare chance to see these impressive works of art up close!
Don’t miss the large torii gate standing along the Miyagawa River on the approach to Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine, too!
