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January 15, 2026 at 12:00 pm
Event date:
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January 15, 2026 at 9:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Santera Mairi Festival, literally meaning “Three Temple Visit,” is one of Hida Furukawa’s most iconic winter events. Celebrated annually on January 15th, this festival has deep cultural roots in the region, historically serving as an opportunity for young men and women to meet while visiting the three main temples of the town.
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Contact Jasumo Now →Over time, it has evolved into a spiritual pilgrimage where locals and visitors alike pray for fortune in relationships, health, and happiness. The festival preserves Hida Furukawa’s historic charm, showcasing traditional architecture, streetscapes, and cultural practices.
Hida Furukawa, with its Edo-period streets and white-walled warehouses, provides a stunning backdrop for the festival. The use of Warosoku Japanese candles, locally handcrafted, emphasizes the town’s dedication to preserving traditional arts while celebrating seasonal festivities.
Overview
The Santera Mairi Festival 2026 will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Visitors embark on a pilgrimage to Hida Furukawa’s three main temples: Enkō-ji, Shinshū-ji, and Honkō-ji, offering prayers for fortune in relationships and life.
The festival’s highlight is the illumination of hundreds of snow candles and lanterns along the Seto River, which begins at 4:00 PM. These candles, produced locally by the Mishima family, include a special giant 13kg candle created for the event. Guests can also participate by lighting red and white candles — white for those seeking new relationships and red for those celebrating successful ones.
Festival-goers can also explore the Monzen-ichi market stalls, open from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM, offering local culinary delights such as Hida beef croquettes, Hida beef curry, gohei-mochi rice sticks, and grilled trout. Visitors often rent kimonos to immerse themselves in the traditional atmosphere while walking along the historic streets.
Highlights
- Visit Hida Furukawa’s three main temples: Enkō-ji, Shinshū-ji, and Honkō-ji.
- Hundreds of traditional Japanese candles illuminated along the Seto River.
- Special giant 13kg candle produced locally for the festival.
- Monzen-ichi market stalls with local Hida cuisine and seasonal treats.
- Option to rent traditional kimono for a fully immersive experience.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Experience a magical candlelit winter festival in historic Hida Furukawa.
- Participate in a centuries-old pilgrimage tradition with cultural significance.
- Enjoy delicious local cuisine at the Monzen-ichi market.
- Capture stunning photos of lantern-lit streets and riverside illuminations.
- Perfect for romantic or family visits, with kimono rentals enhancing the traditional experience.
If you’re coming to Japan or already here and need any kind of help — from custom tours and experiences to transportation or booking tickets — just contact us through the Contact Us page at Jasumo.
Schedule
Event Duration: Thursday, January 15, 2026
Event Location: Downtown Hida Furukawa, centered around Enkō-ji, Shinshū-ji, and Honkō-ji
Schedule Highlights:
- Monzen-ichi (Festival Plaza): Events begin at 12:00 PM (noon)
- Candle Lighting: 4:00 PM along the Seto River and ice sculpture candles
- Illumination Duration: Main activities continue until 9:00 PM
Pricing
Festival Entry: FREE — viewing the illuminations and participating in the pilgrimage does not require an entry fee.
Optional Activity: Kimono rental, typically ¥2,000 (reservation recommended).
Location
Venue: Shirakabe Dozogai Street, Downtown Hida Furukawa, Gifu Prefecture, Japan
How to Get There:
- By Train: Take the JR Takayama Line to Hida-Furukawa Station, then a 5–10 minute walk to the festival area.
- By Car: Accessible from Takayama or nearby towns. Parking is available near the festival area, but it can be limited during peak festival hours.
Accommodation Options
Visitors can stay in Hida Furukawa or nearby Takayama, which offer a mix of ryokans, guesthouses, and hotels. Staying locally allows for easy access to the festival and a more immersive experience of the town’s traditional charm.
Average rates range from ¥8,000–¥18,000 per night, depending on hotel type and location. Booking in advance is recommended due to the festival’s popularity.
FAQs
1. When is the Santera Mairi Festival 2026?
The festival is held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, with main illuminations and temple visits from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
2. Where does the festival take place?
The festival occurs in Downtown Hida Furukawa, centered around the three temples: Enkō-ji, Shinshū-ji, and Honkō-ji.
3. How much does it cost to attend?
Festival entry is free. Optional kimono rentals are available for around ¥2,000.
4. What is special about the Santera Mairi Festival?
The festival features candlelit streets, riverside illuminations, traditional temples, and local cuisine, creating a romantic and culturally immersive winter experience.
5. How can I get to Hida Furukawa for the festival?
By train: JR Takayama Line to Hida-Furukawa Station, then a 5–10 minute walk.
By car: Accessible from Takayama or nearby towns, with parking near the festival area (limited availability).
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