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- Event date:November 2, 2025 at 8:11 am
- Event end:November 3, 2025 at 8:11 am
Experience the Grandeur of Edo-Era Japan
The Hakone Daimyo Gyoretsu (Hakone Feudal Lord’s Procession) is one of Japan’s most iconic historical parades, bringing to life the sankin kotai, a practice from the Edo period (1603–1868) where feudal lords (daimyo) and their entourages journeyed to Edo (modern-day Tokyo). This grand spectacle in Hakone, a crucial checkpoint along the Tōkaidō road, transports visitors back to the days of samurai, geisha, and noble processions.
If you love Japanese history, traditional ceremonies, or samurai culture, this vivid recreation of feudal Japan is a must-see!
What to Expect at the Festival
1. A Majestic Historical Procession
Dressed in elaborate period costumes, over 100 to 200 participants march through the streets of Hakone, embodying samurai, Yakko warriors, princesses, workers, and geisha. At the heart of the event is the daimyo, carried in a traditional palanquin (norimono), flanked by his loyal retainers and warriors.
As they parade, the Yakko warriors chant “Shita-ni! Shita-ni!” (meaning “bow your heads!”)—a command that was historically given to bystanders as the lord passed by.
2. Traditional Performances & Feudal Demonstrations
- The festival is not just about the parade! Along the procession route, you can enjoy:
- Martial arts demonstrations showcasing samurai swordplay.
- Marching bands playing Edo-period-style music.
- Traditional Japanese dance performances by geisha and entertainers.
- Displays of old feudal customs, including rituals and ceremonial actions performed by the daimyo’s attendants.
3. The Procession Route & Schedule (Tentative 2025 Schedule)
The parade lasts about 3.5 hours and follows this route:
- 11:30 AM – Procession starts at Hotel Nanpuso.
- 12:00 PM – Passes through the Teiseien area.
- 2:10 PM – Arrives at Hakone Yumoto Station, one of Hakone’s main transit hubs.
- 2:45 PM – Parade concludes at Yumoto Fujiya Hotel.
The best places to watch the parade are along Hakone Yumoto’s main road, where the participants pass through in full ceremonial display.
The Hakone Daimyo Gyoretsu, or Hakone Feudal Lord’s Procession, is an annual event held on November 3rd in Hakone, Japan. In 2025, the festival will take place on Monday, November 3rd. This cultural event is free to attend.
About the Sankin Kotai System
During the Edo period, sankin kotai was a law requiring feudal lords to alternate their residence between their domain and Edo (Tokyo) every other year. This was a strategy by the shogunate to maintain control over the regional lords, preventing rebellions while also boosting the economy through travel and trade. The Hakone Daimyo Gyoretsu recreates this grand journey, paying tribute to Hakone’s historical significance as a key checkpoint along the Tōkaidō highway, the most important route between Kyoto and Edo.
How to Get to Hakone
By Train
- From Tokyo, take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station (about 85 minutes).
- From Odawara Station, take the Hakone Tozan Railway to Hakone-Yumoto Station (15 minutes).
By Car
- Hakone is about 90 minutes from Tokyo via the Tomei Expressway & Odawara-Atsugi Road.
- Parking: Available near Hakone-Yumoto Station, but spaces fill quickly due to the event.
We Recommend These Must-Try Moments
1. Hakone Sightseeing Cruise Ticket (Kanagawa)
Cruise across scenic Lake Ashi aboard a pirate-themed ship with stunning views.
Enjoy panoramic sights of Mt. Fuji, Hakone Shrine, and surrounding mountains.
A relaxing and iconic part of the Hakone sightseeing experience.
2. Mt. Fuji 5th St. & Hakone & Gotemba Outlets with Lunch from Tokyo
Visit Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station, explore Hakone’s nature and hot spring sights.
Enjoy a Japanese lunch and shop for deals at Gotemba Premium Outlets.
A convenient full-day tour mixing nature, culture, and shopping.
3. Daikoku Parking Private Tour Tokyo Drift Meet
Experience Japan’s underground car culture at Daikoku Parking Area.
Join a private guided night tour to see rare cars and drift scenes in action.
Perfect for car lovers seeking real-life Fast & Furious vibes.
4. Hakone Kamakura Pass
A 3-day pass offering unlimited rides on trains and buses across Hakone, Kamakura, and Enoshima.
Ideal for visiting temples, shrines, beaches, and hot springs without extra transport cost.
Great value for exploring multiple popular spots from Tokyo.
5. Hakone Kowaki-en Yunessun Hot Spring Theme Park One Day Ticket
A unique hot spring park with both traditional baths and fun-themed spas.
Soak in wine, coffee, or green tea baths, or enjoy family-friendly water slides.
A mix of relaxation and amusement in Hakone’s lush mountains.
Tips for Visitors
- Arrive early – The best spots for viewing the parade fill up quickly.
- Bring a camera – The vibrant costumes and historic scenery make for fantastic photos.
- Dress in layers – November can be chilly, especially in the mountains.
- Explore Hakone – After the event, enjoy Hakone’s onsens (hot springs), museums, or a scenic boat cruise on Lake Ashi.
Why You Should Experience the Hakone Daimyo Gyoretsu 2025
This spectacular event is a living history lesson, allowing visitors to step into Japan’s feudal past. The pomp, tradition, and cultural richness make it one of the best historical festivals in Japan. Combine this with Hakone’s stunning natural scenery, famous hot springs, and delicious local cuisine, and you have the perfect autumn day trip from Tokyo.
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