Chichibu Yomatsuri (秩父夜祭) is a festival linked to Shinto beliefs, featuring floats adorned with lanterns that travel through the streets like ancient boats sailing up a river. The festival, which dates back nearly 300 years, takes place annually between December 2nd and 3rd. You'll need to venture a little outside of Tokyo, as the festivities are located in Saitama, in the northwestern city of Chichibu.
As its name suggests, this festival takes place at night. "Yo" means night, and "Matsuri" means festival. Yomatsuri is one of the most important winter events, if not the most famous, and holds its own against other major festivals such as those in Gion, Kyoto, or Takayama, spring.
What happens during the festival?
The floats, weighing up to 20 tons each, are adorned with numerous lanterns and decorated with flowers and spears. It's also a rare opportunity to see fireworks in winter.
The strategic viewing spots are at the Chichibu Shrine and opposite the City Hall. Those lucky enough to have reserved their places in advance will have seats, but these will be at an extra cost. Others will have to stand, but will have a direct view of the passing floats and will experience firsthand the fervor of the float pullers.
Festival schedule
Friday, December 2nd: From approximately noon, floats will parade through the streets until about 4 p.m. Then, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., the floats will parade again. No fireworks are planned for that day.
Saturday, December 3: Starting at 9:00 a.m., floats will present music and dance performances. The show will continue almost all day, but will reach its peak between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. Fireworks will be launched from Hitsujiyama Park at 7:30 p.m.
As the weather starts to become more intense in December, especially in the mountainous regions, we recommend taking advantage of one of the many Yatai (food stalls) set up around town. This way, you'll be well-prepared for the main part of the festival with a full stomach. If you're still feeling chilly, don't hesitate to try the sweet sake, or Amazake (甘酒), which, contrary to what its name suggests, is alcohol-free.
Access to Chichibu
If you are coming from Tokyo, take the Seibu Railway Express from Ikebukuro Station towards Seibu Chichibu Station. The journey takes a little over an hour and a half.
