Soma Nomaoi Procession 2026 Japan Ticket Information

• May 24, 2026 at 9:00 am
  Event date:
• May 26, 2026 at 6:00 am
  Event end:

Overview

Experience the thunderous gallop of history with the Soma Nomaoi, a nationally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property with a legacy spanning over 1,000 years. Held in the Soma region of Fukushima Prefecture, this spectacular event recreates the thrilling atmosphere of the Sengoku period. Hundreds of samurai riders, clad in traditional armor and carrying ancestral flags, converge for a series of events that display incredible equestrian skill and martial spirit, making it one of the most unique and visceral festivals in all of Japan.

The festival features several high-stakes events, including the Katchu Keiba (armored horse racing) and the Shinki Sodatsusen, where hundreds of riders compete to catch sacred flags shot into the air by fireworks. The 2026 celebration continues the modern tradition of the “Spring Nomaoi,” held in May to ensure a more comfortable climate for both the horses and spectators. Witnessing the massive procession and the wild horse chase (Nomakake) offers a rare, living window into Japan’s feudal past, preserved through generations of local families.

Why Attend

• Witness the awe-inspiring sight of hundreds of samurai riders in full authentic armor, an experience that feels like stepping directly onto a historical film set.
• Watch the heart-pounding Katchu Keiba, where armored warriors race at full speed, their ancestral banners fluttering violently in the wind during the heat of competition.
• Experience the sacred Shinki Sodatsusen (Sacred Flag Competition), a chaotic and beautiful scramble for divine favor as flags descend from the sky via fireworks.
• Visit the Hibarigahara Festival Grounds, a dedicated historical arena that provides the perfect backdrop for the large-scale tactical maneuvers and traditional ceremonies.

Schedule & Ticket Information

Jasumo provide Concierge Ticket Service that assists international visitors in securing tickets that usually require many verifications. Submit your request through the Jasumo Contact Form by sharing your preferred date, venue, or performance, ticket type, and quantity. Once you’ve reviewed the event details, simply confirm your selection and our bilingual team will support you end-to-end, including Smart Ticket application and payment coordination via credit card, convenience store, or ATM.

Please note that ticket availability is not guaranteed. After receiving your request, we will first check real-time availability on the official ticket platform. If tickets are available, we’ll make every effort to secure them for you. If they are sold out, don’t worry — we can also source tickets through trusted and verified resale marketplaces in Japan, helping you get the best possible seats.

How to Purchase Tickets?

Jasumo provide Concierge Ticket Service that assists international visitors in securing tickets that usually require many verifications. Submit your request through the Jasumo Contact Form by sharing your preferred date, venue, or performance, ticket type, and quantity. Once you’ve reviewed the event details, simply confirm your selection and our bilingual team will support you end-to-end, including Smart Ticket application and payment coordination via credit card, convenience store, or ATM.

Our dedicated team manages the entire process from initial inquiry to final delivery. This specialized support is particularly valuable for events utilizing “Smart Tickets,” which often require specific mobile app setups and Japanese phone number authentication. By handling these logistics on your behalf, we provide a reliable path to your favorite shows while offering flexible payment options that suit your travel needs.

Disclaimer

Jasumo offers a specialized facilitation service for foreign tourists and non-Japanese residents in Japan, assisting with ticket acquisition for cultural and entertainment events through authorized and official platforms. We are not a ticket reseller and do not sell tickets directly. Our role is to guide international customers through the official booking process and help overcome common challenges, including:

• Language Barriers: Many ticketing systems operate only in Japanese; Jasumo provides full bilingual support.
• Local Platforms: Assistance with lottery applications, payment procedures, and e-ticket delivery methods.

Faqs

What is the difference between Mass Seats and Special Seats at the festival?

Mass seats are traditional Japanese-style “Masu-seki” squares located on the ground, designed to accommodate groups of up to five people. Special seats are typically tiered chairs or elevated viewing platforms that offer a more direct and comfortable line of sight for watching the races.

What should I do if the specific reserved block I want is listed as sold out?

High-demand areas like the Special Photography corners and Mass seats often sell out very quickly. Our concierge team can monitor official resale channels or help you secure Advance Free Seats, which allow entry to general viewing areas where you can find a spot on the day.

Is the festival accessible for international tourists staying in major cities?

The festival takes place in Minamisoma and Soma City, which can be reached via the JR Joban Line from Tokyo or Sendai. We recommend staying in Sendai or booking local accommodation well in advance, as hotels in the immediate Soma region fill up rapidly during the festival period.

Are there any restrictions on photography during the armored races?

Photography is permitted from your seat, but drones are strictly prohibited for the safety of the horses and riders. There are specialized “Special Photography” seats located at the corners of the track specifically designed to give professional and amateur photographers the best angles of the action.

What happens if it rains on the days of the procession or horse races?

The Soma Nomaoi is a historical martial event and generally proceeds in the rain; however, extreme weather may lead to schedule changes. Please note that tickets are generally non-refundable unless the executive committee officially cancels the entire event for safety reasons.

Location