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February 12, 2026 at 12:30 pm
Event date:
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February 12, 2026 at 8:30 pm
Event end:
History
The Hatsuichi (First Market) Festival is a centuries-old tradition in Japan, originally held shortly after the Lunar New Year at local shrines. These early markets were central to community life, allowing residents to purchase goods, food, and charms for the new year.
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Contact Jasumo Now →In Shimoichi Town, Nara Prefecture, the Hatsuichi Festival continues this tradition, preserving both the spirit of commerce and communal celebration. Over the years, the event has grown to include parades, performances, and local mascots, while maintaining its roots as a lively, bustling market.
The festival is not only a celebration of traditional Japanese commerce but also a cultural showcase, where locals and visitors alike can experience Nara’s history, food, and performing arts in a festive setting.
Overview
The Shimoichi Hatsuichi Festival 2026 will take place on Thursday, February 12, 2026, along National Route 309, which is closed to vehicles for the day. The festival runs from 12:30 PM to 8:30 PM and offers visitors a vibrant atmosphere filled with traditional market stalls, music, and cultural performances.
Along the 700-meter festival route, visitors can shop for traditional goods, local foods, and lucky charms, while enjoying performances of traditional music and dance. A mikoshi (portable shrine) parade adds excitement to the festivities, alongside appearances by local mascots from Shimoichi, Yoshino, and Oyodo Towns. Entry is free, but bringing cash is recommended for purchases and snacks.
The festival provides a unique opportunity to experience authentic Japanese culture, blending commerce, entertainment, and local community spirit in one festive day.
Highlights
- Traditional Hatsuichi market stalls selling goods, charms, and local products.
- Mikoshi (portable shrine) parade, bringing energy and excitement to the streets.
- Traditional music and dance performances, showcasing Nara’s cultural heritage.
- Local mascot appearances from Shimoichi, Yoshino, and Oyodo Towns.
- Vehicle-free street, allowing visitors to stroll safely along the full festival route.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Experience a historic first-market festival with traditional Japanese charm.
- Watch or participate in the mikoshi parade and cultural performances.
- Enjoy shopping for local goods and traditional charms in a festive setting.
- Interact with local mascots and witness community traditions.
- Stroll along a 700-meter vehicle-free street safely while soaking in the festival atmosphere.
If you’re coming to Japan or already here and need any type of help—from custom tours and experiences to transportation or ticket bookings—just contact us through the Contact Us page on Jasumo.
Schedule
Date: Thursday, February 12, 2026
Time: 12:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Venue: National Route 309, Shimoichi Town, Yoshino District, Nara
Pricing
Admission: Free for all visitors
Activity Fees: None; purchases at stalls are optional
Food & Drinks: Available at local festival stalls
Location
Venue: Shimoichi Town, along National Route 309
Address: 489 Shimoichi, Yoshino District, Nara 638-8799, Japan
How to Get There:
The festival is about 7 minutes on foot from Shimoichiguchi Station on the Kintetsu Railway’s Yoshino Line.
Accommodation Options
Visitors can stay in Shimoichi Town or nearby Yoshino towns, with options ranging from small inns and guesthouses to local ryokans. Popular choices include Yoshino Kanko Hotel and Minshuku Shimoichi, providing convenient access to the festival and surrounding attractions.
Average nightly rates range from ¥6,000 to ¥12,000, depending on comfort and proximity to the festival. Booking early is recommended, especially during festival season.
FAQs
Q1. When is the Shimoichi Hatsuichi Festival 2026 held?
It takes place on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 12:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
Q2. Is there an admission fee?
No, entry is free for all visitors.
Q3. What can visitors expect at the festival?
Visitors can enjoy traditional market stalls, local food, a mikoshi parade, music and dance performances, and mascot appearances.
Q4. How do I get to Shimoichi for the festival?
The festival is 7 minutes on foot from Shimoichiguchi Station on the Kintetsu Railway’s Yoshino Line.
Q5. Are there accommodations nearby?
Yes, there are small inns, guesthouses, and ryokans in Shimoichi and nearby Yoshino towns offering convenient access to the festival.
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