Written by TC Team
Celebrate tradition and color at the Uchiwa Festival in Kumagaya, Saitama, one of the biggest festivals in the region attracting over 750,000 visitors each year.
What happens?
This traditional event, also known as the Kumagaya Summer Festival, is a celebration of culture and community and features dynamic parades, colorful street performances, and iconic uchiwa fans.
There will be beautifully decorated floats paraded through the town, accompanied by traditional music and dance performances.
History
The Uchiwa Festival, held at Yasaka Shrine in Kumagaya, has a history dating back to the Bunroku era (1592-). It then unified local festivals into a town-wide celebration in 1750 (during the Edo period). The festival’s name, Uchiwa, comes from the handheld fans distributed during summer events. Over time, it expanded to include mikoshi processions, floats, and food carts (yatai), showcasing Kumagaya’s community spirit and local industries.
How to get there
Kumagaya is easily accessible from Tokyo. Take the JR Takasaki Line (1 hour and 8 minutes) or the Joetsu Shinkansen (40 minutes) to Kumagaya Station. The festival venue is a short walk from the station.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.