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January 11, 2026 at 11:00 am
Event date:
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January 20, 2026 at 4:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Takaoka Hot Pot Festival, locally known as the Nihonkai Takaoka Nabe Matsuri (日本海高岡なべ祭り), began nearly 40 years ago as a small community celebration. Originally intended to warm the hearts and bellies of locals during the cold Hokuriku winters, it quickly grew into one of Toyama Prefecture’s most iconic food events.
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Contact Jasumo Now →Takaoka, being close to the Sea of Japan, has long been famous for its fresh seafood and locally sourced vegetables. These ingredients became the foundation for the wide variety of nabe dishes featured at the festival. What started as a regional winter feast soon became a symbol of community spirit and culinary pride.
Over time, the event expanded to include more vendors, live entertainment, and interactive experiences. Today, it welcomes thousands of visitors each year who come to savor authentic Japanese comfort food while enjoying the festive atmosphere of downtown Takaoka.
Overview
The Takaoka Hot Pot Festival 2026 is scheduled to take place in mid-January, offering visitors an inviting mix of delicious flavors, lively crowds, and cozy winter vibes. The streets around Takaoka Station and the central shopping mall transform into an open-air food paradise where steam rises from rows of simmering pots.
Visitors can sample over 30 types of nabe — from rich miso-based soups and seafood blends to spicy kimchi hot pots and regional specialties unique to Toyama. Each bowl offers a taste of local craftsmanship and culinary diversity, with prices starting as low as 300 yen. With live performances, family-friendly areas, and an atmosphere filled with laughter, this festival promises a delightful experience for food lovers of all ages.
Highlights
- Taste authentic hot pot (nabe) dishes made from fresh Sea of Japan ingredients.
- Sample crab soup, miso-based stews, and local seafood creations.
- Enjoy stage performances, music, and cultural shows during the event.
- Family-friendly atmosphere with seating areas and souvenir stalls.
- Perfect for food enthusiasts looking to explore Japanese winter traditions.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- One of Toyama’s most heartwarming winter food festivals.
- Affordable and fun for both locals and international travelers.
- Offers a perfect blend of local flavors and cultural festivities.
- Located near Takaoka Station, easily accessible by train.
- A must-visit for those who want to taste Japan’s regional cuisine traditions.
If you’re coming to Japan or already in Japan, and need any type of help — from custom tours and experiences to transportation or ticket bookings — just contact us through the Jasumo contact page.
Schedule
Dates: January 11–20, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily
Duration: 10 days of warm meals, friendly crowds, and winter fun
Pricing
Admission: Free
General Hot Pot Ticket: 300 JPY per bowl
Advance Ticket Offer: 2 tickets for 500 JPY
Crab Soup (Special): 550 JPY per cup
Tickets can be purchased at the event venue or at participating stores before the festival begins.
Location
Venue: Around Takaoka Station and Central Shopping Mall
Address: 6-1 Shimozekimachi, Takaoka, Toyama 933-0021, Japan
How to Get There
Takaoka Station is well connected by several railway lines:
- JR Himi Line – From Toyama Station, about 20 minutes.
- JR Jōhana Line – From Kanazawa, about 40 minutes.
- Ainokaze Toyama Railway Line – Direct access from various Hokuriku cities.
Once you arrive at Takaoka Station, the festival area is just a short walk away. Local buses and taxis are also available for easy access to nearby attractions.
Accommodation Options
Visitors to the Takaoka Hot Pot Festival will find a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget. From cozy business hotels near the station to comfortable ryokans offering Japanese-style stays, the city has plenty of convenient choices.
Budget-friendly hotels average between 6,000 to 8,000 JPY per night, while mid-range options with onsen access or breakfast plans range from 10,000 to 13,000 JPY per night. Staying in central Takaoka allows visitors to easily explore the city’s attractions such as Zuiryu-ji Temple, Kanayamachi Street, and Toyama’s local art museums.
FAQs
What is the Takaoka Hot Pot Festival?
The Takaoka Hot Pot Festival is a popular winter food event in Toyama Prefecture celebrating Japanese nabe (hot pot) cuisine, featuring various regional recipes and local ingredients.
When will the Takaoka Hot Pot Festival 2026 take place?
The festival is scheduled for January 11th to 20th, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily around Takaoka Station.
Is there an entrance fee for the event?
No, entry to the festival grounds is completely free. You only need to purchase tickets for the hot pots you wish to taste.
What types of nabe dishes are available?
Visitors can enjoy seafood-based nabe, miso and soy-sauce broths, kimchi hot pots, crab soups, and vegetable-based versions — all cooked fresh by local vendors.
How do I get to Takaoka from Tokyo or Osaka?
From Tokyo, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Shin-Takaoka Station, then transfer to the JR Johana Line for one stop to Takaoka Station. From Osaka, take the Thunderbird Limited Express to Kanazawa and then transfer to the Ainokaze Toyama Railway Line.
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