Kanto · SaitamaFestival
One of the Kanto region’s biggest and oldest festivals, the Kawagoe Matsuri fills the “Little Edo” streets north of Tokyo with towering wooden floats, live music and, after dark, dramatic float face-offs.
Overview
The Kawagoe Matsuri (Kawagoe Hikawa Festival) has a history of more than 360 years. Towering wooden floats (dashi) topped with figures of historical and mythical characters are pulled through the old town to the sound of traditional ohayashi music. It was inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2016, and today draws close to a million visitors over its two days.
When and Where
The 2026 festival is held on Saturday and Sunday, October 17 and 18 (the third weekend of October), in the Kurazukuri warehouse district of Kawagoe, Saitama, just north of Tokyo.
Getting There
Kawagoe is about 30 minutes from central Tokyo. Take the Tobu Tojo Line from Ikebukuro to Kawagoe Station, or the Seibu Shinjuku Line to Hon-Kawagoe Station, then walk 10 to 15 minutes to the old town.
What to Expect
Around two dozen floats parade by day. The highlight comes after dark with the hikkawase, when floats meet head-on and their musicians and dancers face off in a spirited contest of ohayashi, lanterns glowing all around.
Tips for Visitors
Come in the evening for the most dramatic float encounters, and wear comfortable shoes for the crowds. Pair your visit with Kawagoe’s Kurazukuri warehouse streets, the Toki no Kane bell tower, and Kashiya Yokocho candy alley.
Access and Map
| Dates (2026) | Saturday–Sunday, October 17–18 |
|---|---|
| Venue | Kurazukuri old town, Kawagoe, Saitama |
| Access | Tobu Tojo Line to Kawagoe Station, or Seibu Shinjuku Line to Hon-Kawagoe Station; 10–15 min walk |
| Admission | Free |
| Official site | kawagoematsuri.jp |
Source: Kawagoe Festival (official)
Top image: Photo: 江戸村のとくぞう / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
