Tohoku · YamagataCultural
Hundreds of armoured warriors recreate a legendary 16th-century battle on a Yamagata riverbed each spring.
Overview
The Yonezawa Uesugi Festival honours the warlord Uesugi Kenshin and the samurai heritage of the old Yonezawa domain. Centred on Uesugi Shrine, it builds over several days from Shinto rites and costumed processions to its climax, a large-scale reenactment of the Battle of Kawanakajima. With hundreds of participants in period armour, it is one of Tohoku’s most dramatic historical festivals.
When & Where
The 2026 festival runs April 29 to May 3, with the headline Kawanakajima battle reenactment staged on May 3. Events take place around Uesugi Shrine and on the nearby Matsukawa riverbed in Yonezawa, Yamagata. Nearest station: JR Yonezawa Station.
Getting There
Yonezawa is a stop on the Yamagata Shinkansen, making it an easy approach from Tokyo or Sendai. From Yonezawa Station, the shrine and festival grounds are a short bus or taxi ride, or a walk of around 20 to 30 minutes.
What to Expect
- Costumed samurai processions through the town
- A large reenactment of the Battle of Kawanakajima
- Roughly 700 armoured participants recreating the Kenshin-Shingen duel
- Shinto ceremonies at Uesugi Shrine
- Folk dance parades and food stalls
Tickets & Access
Watching the processions and shrine events is free. Paid grandstand seating is usually offered for the battle reenactment; check the tourism site for sale dates.
Tips for Visitors
May 3 draws the biggest crowds for the battle, so arrive early or reserve a seat. Layer your clothing, as Yamagata’s spring days can be warm while mornings and evenings stay cool.
Access and Map
| Dates | April 29 to May 3, 2026 (battle reenactment on May 3) |
|---|---|
| Venue | Uesugi Shrine and Matsukawa riverbed, Yonezawa, Yamagata |
| Nearest station | JR Yonezawa Station |
| Access | Yamagata Shinkansen to Yonezawa, then short bus/taxi or ~20 to 30 min walk |
| Admission | Free (grandstand seats for the reenactment are paid) |
| Official site | Travel Yonezawa (Yonezawa Tourism) |
Source: Travel Yonezawa (Yonezawa Tourism)
Image: No image
