Chugoku · TottoriDance
Thousands of dancers twirl bell-hung umbrellas through central Tottori in a festival that holds a Guinness World Record.
Overview
The Tottori Shan-Shan Matsuri is the city’s big summer festival, named for the jingle of bells on its signature umbrellas and the bubbling of Tottori’s hot springs. Its centrepiece is the Issei Kasa Odori, a mass umbrella dance in which as many as 4,000 performers fill the city-centre streets, spinning colourful bell-hung umbrellas in unison. In 2014 the dance earned a Guinness World Record as the largest umbrella dance.
When & Where
13–15 August 2026, in central Tottori City. The grand umbrella-dance parade peaks on 14 August. Nearest station: JR Tottori.
Getting There
Central Tottori is a short walk from JR Tottori Station, which is served by limited express trains along the San’in coast and connections from Okayama via the Chizu Express. The dance route runs through the main downtown avenues near the station.
What to Expect
Expect wave after wave of dancers in matching happi coats twirling decorated umbrellas hung with tiny bells, backed by music and drums. Side events, food stalls and (in some years) a fireworks night round out the programme. The synchronised umbrellas are the classic photo.
Tickets & Access
Free to watch from the public streets along the parade route. No ticket is required for the umbrella dance; simply find a spot along the downtown avenues before it begins.
Tips for Visitors
Arrive early on 14 August for a clear view of the mass dance, and bring water for the midsummer heat. Combine the trip with the famous Tottori Sand Dunes, a short bus ride from the city centre.
Access and Map
| Dates | 13–15 August 2026 (dance 14 Aug) |
|---|---|
| Venue | Central Tottori City |
| Access | Short walk from JR Tottori Station |
| Admission | Free |
| Official site | Visit Tottori City |
