Based at Hiyoshi Shrine, which is a 20-minute walk from Showajima on the JR Ome Line (far west Tokyo), this is one of the longest continually running festivals in the Kanto region.
The very first Sakaki Matsuri was held in 1767. As part of the ceremony, a large Sakaki (it’s a variety of tree) is tied with strips of paper and 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.
Due to COVID-19, some of the schedule and rituals in 2022 may change. There will be no stalls at Haijima Park.
To prevent the spread of COVID-19, many events have been canceled. Always check official sites before heading to an event.