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February 23, 2026 at 9:00 am
Event date:
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February 25, 2026 at 12:00 pm
Event end:
History
Tsubaki Matsuri, or the Camellia Festival, is an annual celebration held at Tsubaki Shrine in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture. The festival coincides with Setsubun, which marks the seasonal change on February 3rd. Setsubun traditions date back centuries and include rituals to ward off evil spirits and invite good fortune, such as scattering dried beans.
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Contact Jasumo Now →Over time, Tsubaki Matsuri has become a lively community event, blending spiritual observances with festive activities. Visitors can witness traditional rituals, make offerings at the shrine, and purchase charms for luck, safe travel, good health, and success in examinations. The festival is also closely associated with the tsubaki (red camellia) flower, which symbolizes the approach of spring in Japan.
The festival has evolved into a cultural celebration that combines religious practices, seasonal awareness, and a vibrant street fair atmosphere, attracting both locals and tourists.
Overview
Tsubaki Matsuri 2026 is scheduled for February 23–25 (Monday to Wednesday) and offers a lively and colorful experience in Matsuyama. Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere with mikoshi (portable shrine) processions, music, and traditional performances.
The festival also features an extensive variety of street food, including okonomiyaki, oysters, fruit, fried chicken (karaage), fries, rice crackers, grilled meat, and squid, ensuring that attendees can feast while exploring the festival grounds. In addition to food, visitors can purchase good luck charms, omikuji (fortunes), and tsubaki-themed ornaments to celebrate the upcoming spring.
Highlights
- Mikoshi (portable shrine) processions creating a lively, festive atmosphere.
- Wide variety of traditional and street food stalls.
- Purchase charms and fortunes for good luck, safe driving, and success.
- Celebrate Setsubun traditions, including bean scattering rituals.
- Beautiful tsubaki (red camellia) decorations and seasonal blossoms.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Experience a traditional Japanese festival with vibrant rituals and street celebrations.
- Enjoy delicious local foods and seasonal specialties.
- Participate in Setsubun traditions for good luck and fortune.
- Explore cultural charms, decorations, and festival performances.
- Perfect event for families, couples, and solo travelers visiting Ehime in winter.
If you are coming to Japan or already in Japan and need assistance—from custom tours and experiences to transportation, ticket booking, or any other travel needs—contact us via the Jasumo contact page.
Schedule
- Dates: Monday, February 23 – Wednesday, February 25, 2026
- Time: Early January / daytime events, exact timing depends on local rituals
Pricing
- Entry: Free for all visitors
- Food & Goods: Purchases at stalls and for charms/fortunes are separate
Location
Tsubaki Shrine, Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture
2 Chome-2-1 Iai, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0934, Japan
Phone: +81 89-956-0321
How to Get There:
- Take a local bus or taxi to Tsubaki Shrine from Matsuyama city center.
- Walking or bicycle rentals are options for nearby visitors.
Accommodation Options
Visitors can choose from a range of accommodations in Matsuyama, including mid-range hotels, traditional ryokans, and budget hostels.
Mid-range hotels typically cost ¥8,000–¥15,000 per night, while ryokans providing cultural experiences range from ¥15,000–¥30,000 per night. Budget hostels start around ¥3,500–¥5,000 per night. Booking early is recommended, as the festival period is popular with both locals and tourists.
FAQs
What is Tsubaki Matsuri?
Tsubaki Matsuri is the Camellia Festival held at Tsubaki Shrine, celebrating Setsubun with rituals, food stalls, and cultural activities.
Is there an entry fee for the festival?
No, entry is free. Food, charms, and souvenirs are purchased separately.
When is Tsubaki Matsuri 2026?
The festival will take place from Monday, February 23 to Wednesday, February 25, 2026.
What traditional activities can visitors participate in?
Visitors can join Setsubun rituals, scatter beans for good fortune, and purchase omikuji (fortunes) and charms.
How do I get to Tsubaki Shrine?
Tsubaki Shrine is accessible by local bus or taxi from Matsuyama city center, and walking or cycling are convenient for nearby accommodations.
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