Written by TC Team
Based at Hiyoshi Shrine, which is a 20-minute walk from Showajima on the JR Ōme Line (far west Tokyo), this is one of the longest continually running festivals in the Kantō region.
What happens?
The very first Sakaki Matsuri was held in 1767. As part of the ceremony, a large Sakaki (it’s a variety of tree) mikoshi (portable shrine) is tied with strips of paper, then carried and shaken rather vigorously on its way through the town to the shrine.
If you’re having trouble building a mental picture, check the very long YouTube video from 2013’s festival below.
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Schedule 2026
Exact details for 2026 are yet to be published, but based on last year’s event, here’s roughly what to expect:
- Saturday, September 12/13: The large tree will depart from the shrine at midnight on the 12th/13th.
- Sunday, September 13: There will be more mikoshi parades at around 1 p.m. and festival stalls.
Mid
Sep
2027
吉神社例祭
Free
Showajima Station (JR Ome Line)
