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Eventory

Matsuri Festivals

Bonten Festival

Sat, Nov 21, 2026, 09:00–17:00 · Haguroyama Shrine, Utsunomiya · Tochigi

Dates

  • Sat, Nov 21, 2026, 09:00–17:00

About this event

Summary
Haguroyama Shrine Grand Festival is a traditional event dedicated to praying for abundant harvests and family safety.

Details
The festival, known as the Bonten Festival, has been held for approximately 300 years. It features the carrying of a Bonten, a 15-meter pole made of Moso bamboo and Madake bamboo, adorned with colorful tassels. Participants, young people dressed in Happi coats, carry the pole from the approach to the shrine while chanting "Essa Essa". Starting in 2024, the event includes new activities such as flower water offerings and hula dancing in kimono. The festival day is marked by a lively atmosphere with numerous food stalls and vendors lining the area.

Also on the list: Matsuri Festivals in Tochigi

  1. Kashima Autumn Festival

    Imamiya Shrine, Kanuma

    Details Google Maps

  2. Utsunomiya Castle Ruins Festival

    Utsunomiya Castle Ruins Park

    Details Google Maps

  3. Imachi Yatai Festival

    JR Imachi Station, Nikko · Nikkō

    Details Google Maps

  4. Kikusui Festival at Fushimi Inari Shrine

    Utsunomiya Futarasan Shrine

    Details Google Maps

  5. Uzuma Bamboo Lantern Festival

    Babagawa River, Tochigi

    Details Google Maps

  6. Discover Treasure at Kibata Shrine

    Kibata Shrine, Yaita

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Event details come from organizers' websites and web searches. They are not guaranteed to be accurate. Check the official website before you go. Times are Japan time (JST).