Himeji Castle Festival 2026

• May 16, 2026 at 12:34 am
  Event date:
• May 18, 2026 at 12:34 am
  Event end:

The Himeji Castle Festival is a spectacular celebration honoring the rich samurai heritage and cultural legacy of Japan’s most iconic castle, Himeji Castle. This annual event transforms the UNESCO World Heritage site into a lively historical stage, featuring parades, performances, and traditional ceremonies that transport visitors back to the Edo period.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

• Samurai Procession & Reenactments: Watch armor-clad warriors march through the city, recreating the grandeur of feudal Japan.
• Traditional Music & Dance Performances: Enjoy captivating kagura (Shinto dance), taiko drumming, and Noh theater performances.
• Tea Ceremonies & Cultural Experiences: Step into Japan’s refined past with kimono-wearing, tea ceremonies, and calligraphy workshops.
• Breathtaking Castle Views: Experience Himeji Castle in its full glory, surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.
• Family-Friendly Fun: The festival offers interactive exhibits, food stalls, and craft-making workshops, making it a great event for all ages.

What to Expect

• The Grand Samurai Procession: One of the festival’s highlights is the Daimyo Gyoretsu, a magnificent parade featuring samurai, nobles, and princesses in elaborate period costumes.
• Live Sword Fighting Demonstrations: Witness skilled performers showcase katana techniques and samurai combat skills.
• Local Food & Souvenirs: Savor Hyogo’s famous specialties, including Himeji oden, fresh seafood, and Japanese sweets, while browsing handcrafted souvenirs.
• Castle Illumination at Night: As the sun sets, Himeji Castle lights up beautifully, offering a magical backdrop for evening performances.

We Recommend These Must-Try Moments

1. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan E-ticket
Dive into one of the world’s largest and most spectacular aquariums.
Explore marine life from the Pacific Rim, including whale sharks and jellyfish.
Perfect for families and sea-life enthusiasts.

2. Osaka Castle Ticket
Step into history at one of Japan’s most famous landmarks.
Explore the grand castle tower, museum exhibits, and panoramic views.
A must-see symbol of Osaka’s heritage and power.

3. Umeda Sky Building & Kuchu Teien Observatory Ticket in Osaka
Take in sweeping 360° views of Osaka from the Floating Garden Observatory.
This futuristic skyscraper offers romantic cityscapes, especially at night.
Great for photographers and skyline lovers.

4. HARUKAS 300 Observatory Ticket in Osaka
Ride Japan’s fastest elevator to the 300m-high observation deck.
Enjoy stunning views of Osaka, Kobe, and even Awaji Island on clear days.
Located atop Abeno Harukas, Japan’s tallest skyscraper.

5. teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka Ticket
Experience digital art fused with nature in a glowing nighttime garden.
Wander through interactive light installations among real plants and trees.
A serene, immersive teamLab experience unique to Osaka.

Tips for Visitors

• Arrive Early for the Best Spots: The samurai parade and live performances draw large crowds, so secure a good viewing area in advance.
• Explore Himeji Castle: Before the festival, take a tour inside the historic castle keep, renowned for its stunning white exterior and intricate wooden interiors.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The festival involves a lot of walking, especially if you’re exploring the castle grounds.
• Capture Stunning Photos: The contrast of vivid festival colors against Himeji Castle’s white façade makes for breathtaking photography.

How to Join
The Himeji Castle Festival is free to attend, though entry to the castle itself requires a ticket. Whether you’re a samurai enthusiast, history lover, or cultural explorer, this festival offers an unforgettable journey into Japan’s feudal past!

Video

Location