Shikoku · EhimeFestival
Around 150 gilded floats parade and clash in the river in one of Japan’s largest autumn festivals.
Overview
The Saijo Matsuri is the collective autumn festival of four shrines in Saijo City, eastern Ehime, and one of the country’s grandest float festivals. Roughly 150 lavishly decorated danjiri, mikoshi and lantern-hung taikodai floats parade through the streets, and the event is famed for having one of the highest float counts in Japan. Its dramatic peak is the Kawairi river crossing, when floats plunge into the Kamo River in a surge of light and spirit.
When & Where
The shrine festivals run 11–17 October 2026, with the Isono Shrine festival on 15–16 October and the celebrated Kamo River crossing on 16 October. Venues span Saijo City, eastern Ehime.
Getting There
Saijo is on the JR Yosan Line in eastern Ehime; Iyo-Saijo Station is the main gateway, about an hour from Matsuyama by limited express. Individual shrine venues are spread across the city, so check which event you want and plan local transport or walking accordingly.
What to Expect
Expect towering, gilded floats hung with lanterns, carried and hauled by large teams through day and night, culminating in the Kawairi when floats enter the river. The gold leaf, carvings and massed lanterns make the night processions especially striking.
Tickets & Access
Free to watch from public streets and riverbanks. No ticket is needed; popular vantage points for the river crossing on 16 October fill early, so arrive in good time.
Tips for Visitors
The 16 October river crossing is the highlight — scout a riverbank spot well ahead. Nights get busy and chilly, so bring a layer, and note that Saijo is also known for its pure spring water (uchinuki).
Access and Map
| Dates | 11–17 October 2026 (river crossing 16 Oct) |
|---|---|
| Venue | Saijo City, Ehime |
| Access | JR Iyo-Saijo Station |
| Admission | Free |
| Official site | Visit Ehime Japan |
Source: Visit Ehime Japan
Image: Photo: ＨＮ：依存性だんぢり中毒 / Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
