Fujiwara Autumn Festival 2026

• November 1, 2026 at 7:35 pm
  Event date:
• November 3, 2026 at 7:35 pm
  Event end:

Step Back in Time to the Era of the Fujiwara Clan

The Fujiwara Autumn Festival captivates as a grand historical revival in Hiraizumi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iwate Prefecture. This immersive event honors the Fujiwara clan’s golden age during the Heian period (794–1185), when they held sway over northern Japan’s cultural and political realms. From November 1st to 3rd, the festival weaves samurai processions, ancient rituals, and artistic displays amid the resplendent autumn foliage that carpets the temples and hills in fiery hues.

Festival Overview

• Dates: Early November celebration (November 1st – November 3rd, 2026)
• Location: Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture (centered at Chuson-ji Temple and Motsu-ji Temple)
• Access: Tohoku Shinkansen to Ichinoseki Station, then JR Ofunato Line to Hiraizumi Station (~10 minutes); or direct buses from Morioka

Festival Highlights

• Grand Samurai Procession (November 3rd) – Thrill to hundreds of armored warriors and Heian courtiers marching in authentic regalia, vividly recreating Minamoto no Yoshitsune’s perilous northern flight with his steadfast retainers.
• Bugaku & Kagura Performances – Savor the refined grace of imperial bugaku dances and Shinto kagura rituals, performed with haunting precision at the sacred halls of Chuson-ji Temple.
• Archery & Swordsmanship Demonstrations – Witness master archers and kenjutsu experts unleashing feats of precision and power, echoing the prowess of Fujiwara guardians.
• Temple Illumination – As dusk descends, lanterns bathe Chuson-ji and Motsu-ji Temples in ethereal light, amplifying the magic against a starry autumn sky.

Experience the Legacy of the Fujiwara Clan

Hiraizumi once rivaled Kyoto as a beacon of Buddhist splendor and artistic innovation under Fujiwara rule. The festival revives this northern paradise through: ✔ Reenactment of Minamoto no Yoshitsune’s escape – A dramatic narrative of loyalty and tragedy. ✔ Processions honoring Fujiwara no Kiyohira – The visionary founder who forged Hiraizumi’s legacy. ✔ Ceremonial offerings at Chuson-ji Temple – Sacred rites at the iconic Konjikido (Golden Hall), Japan’s oldest intact structure.

Best Spots to Enjoy the Festival

• Chuson-ji Temple – The pulsating hub for sword dances, orchestral music, and the climactic procession.
• Motsu-ji Temple – Serene gardens ideal for intimate reenactments and meditative rituals amid pond reflections.
• Hiraizumi Cultural Heritage Center – Dive into exhibits on Fujiwara artifacts before stepping into the living history.

Must-Try Festival Foods

Embrace Tohoku’s hearty flavors:

• Wanko Soba – Endlessly refilled mini-bowls of slippery buckwheat noodles in dashi broth—a playful Iwate challenge.
• Mochi Dishes – Chewy delights like zunda mochi, swirled with vibrant green edamame paste.
• Local Sake – Sipped warm from artisanal cups, showcasing Iwate’s crisp, mineral-rich brews.

Event date:

• November 1, 2026

Event end:

• November 3, 2026

We Recommend These Must-Try Moments

1. Tsurugajo Castle (Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle) Admission Ticket in Aizuwakamatsu
Explore the beautifully reconstructed Tsurugajo Castle, a symbol of samurai history.
Discover exhibits on the Boshin War and panoramic views from the castle tower.
Perfect for history enthusiasts and those exploring Fukushima.

2. Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium Ticket
Dive into marine life from the Pacific Ocean at Sendai’s modern aquarium.
Enjoy dolphin shows, interactive exhibits, and sea creatures from around the world.
A fun and educational visit for families and ocean lovers.

3. Sendai Three Scenic Views: Matsushima Bay Sightseeing Experience
Cruise through one of Japan’s most scenic bays, dotted with over 200 pine-covered islands.
Explore Zuiganji Temple and enjoy fresh seafood in the charming port town.
A serene cultural and natural escape near Sendai.

4. Zao Fox Village and Ginzan Onsen One Day Bus Tour with Lunch
Get close to friendly foxes at the unique Zao Fox Village in the mountains.
Stroll through the historic streets of Ginzan Onsen, a picturesque hot spring town.
Lunch and transportation included for a hassle-free day trip from Sendai.

5. Zao Snow Wall & Cherry Blossom 1DAY Bus Tour with Ohanami Experience
Marvel at towering snow walls along the Echo Line scenic road in Zao.
Enjoy seasonal cherry blossom viewing at handpicked spots along the route.
A rare combo of snow and sakura, only available in early spring.

Travel Tips for Visitors

• Best Time to Arrive: Early morning on November 3rd for unobstructed procession views and golden-hour foliage.
• Transportation: Seamless Shinkansen links from Tokyo (~2.5 hours); rent bikes at Hiraizumi Station for temple-hopping.
• Weather: Crisp autumn chill (5–15°C)—layer with a jacket, gloves, and scarf for evening illuminations.
• Crowd Tip: Weekday starts (Nov 1–2) offer quieter immersion; book accommodations early in tiny Hiraizumi.

What to Expect?

• Historical Immersion – Over 500 participants channeling Heian ghosts in a symphony of steel and silk.
• Seasonal Splendor – Vibrant koyo leaves framing ancient pines and gilded roofs.
• Spiritual Depth – Blends of esoteric Buddhism and Shinto, with incense-scented air and chanting echoes.

Don’t miss this breathtaking historical festival at the Fujiwara Autumn Festival 2026—a mesmerizing fusion of samurai lore, cultural reverence, and Tohoku’s untamed autumn allure. If legends of warriors and whispering winds stir your soul, Hiraizumi awaits!

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