Nikko Toshogu Shrine Autumn Festival 2025

• Event date:
  October 16, 2025 at 6:42 am
• Event end:
  October 17, 2025 at 6:42 am

A Majestic Tribute to Tokugawa Ieyasu

The Nikko Toshogu Shrine Autumn Festival is one of Japan’s most iconic historical events, held to honor Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. This grand festival, set against the backdrop of vibrant autumn foliage, features traditional processions, martial arts performances, and Shinto rituals, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Japan’s Samurai-era traditions.

Festival Highlights

• Hyakumono-Zoroe Sennin Gyoretsu (Samurai Procession) – The highlight of the festival! Around 1,000 warriors dressed in full samurai armor march in a grand historical re-enactment, retracing the route of Tokugawa Ieyasu’s spirit as it was enshrined at Nikko Toshogu Shrine in 1617.
• Yabusame (Samurai Horseback Archery) – Witness highly skilled archers in traditional samurai attire performing yabusame, a breathtaking display of precision and speed as they shoot arrows at targets while galloping at full speed.
• Shinto Rituals & Performances – Experience sacred Shinto ceremonies, where shrine priests offer prayers and perform ritual dances to honor the spirits.

Why Visit the Nikko Toshogu Shrine Autumn Festival?

• Authentic Samurai Experience – A rare opportunity to witness a historical re-enactment from Japan’s Edo period.
• Autumn Foliage Beauty – The shrine is surrounded by stunning fall colors, making it one of the best times to visit Nikko’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Cultural & Spiritual Atmosphere – Feel the sacred energy of one of Japan’s most famous shrines, dedicated to the legendary Tokugawa Ieyasu.

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1. Nikko, Kegon Waterfall & Chuzenji Lake from Tokyo
Take a scenic day trip from Tokyo to the tranquil beauty of Nikko.
Marvel at Kegon Falls and enjoy lakeside views at Lake Chuzenji.
A perfect escape to nature and history in one tour.

2. Nikko Toshogu Shrine & Kegon Waterfall One Day Tour from Tokyo
Visit the ornate UNESCO-listed Nikko Toshogu Shrine.
Witness the power of Kegon Waterfall in a picturesque mountain setting.
A guided journey blending rich culture and breathtaking landscapes.

3. Nasu Animal Kingdom Ticket in Tochigi
Interact with animals in a fun, walk-through safari and petting zoo.
Home to capybaras, alpacas, and rare birds in Nasu’s natural surroundings.
Family-friendly, hands-on fun in Tochigi’s cool highlands.

4. SPA HERBS Onsen Experience in Saitama
Relax in a modern yet traditional Japanese onsen with indoor and outdoor baths.
Features saunas, stone spas, and a peaceful lounge area.
Perfect for a rejuvenating break near Tokyo.

5. Saitama Forest Park Segway Tour in Musashi-Kyuryo National Government Park
Glide through lush forest trails on a guided Segway tour.
Discover the beauty of Saitama’s vast national park in a unique way.
Fun, eco-friendly, and ideal for outdoor explorers.

Travel Tips

• Arrive Early – The festival is extremely popular, so secure a good viewing spot for the Samurai Procession and Yabusame.
• Explore Nikko – Visit nearby Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, and Shinkyo Bridge for a full autumn experience.
• Dress Warmly – Nikko’s weather in October can be chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings.

Step back in time and witness the grandeur of Japan’s Samurai legacy at the Nikko Toshogu Shrine Autumn Festival 2025!

Features

• Food & Drink Options
• General Amenities
• Health & Wellness

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