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  • See & Do
  • Nikko Area

Heike Taisai (Grand Festival of Heike)

  • Summer
  • Events
  • Activities

A summer festival in the legendary Yunishigawa Onsen

*Heike Taisai has been cancelled in 2023.

A traditional Yunishigawa festival held in early June, featuring Biwa (Japanese lute) performances, dances and theatrical plays. The highlight of the festival is the “Emaki Gyoretsu Procession”, where over 200 people dressed as heroic Samurais or elegant princesses parade through the town. Visitors can also apply to join the march.

Basic Information

Address Yudonosan-jinja, Nikko-city, Tochigi
Telephone Number 0288-22-1525(Nikko City Tourism Association)
Website https://www.visitnikko.jp/en/spots/heike-taisai/
Date June 6-7 ,every year
Venue The eve of the festival: “Emaki Gyoretsu Procession” *approx.2-kilometre parade from Yudonosan-jinja Shrine to Heike no SatoOpening ceremony at Yudonosan-jinja ShrineShinto rituals at Heike no Sato
DIRECTIONS 17 minutes from Yunishigawa-Onsen Station by buses bound for Yunishigawa Onsen, then a 3-minute walk from Hotel Hana to Hana-mae bus stop.
Map Code 716 160 050*24

Nikko Area

The Nikko area, in the northwestern part of the prefecture, is particularly mountainous. In the midst of the rich nature, including the 2,486-meter-high volcano Mt. Nantai, Lake Chuzenji, and Kegon Falls, there are numerous shrines and temples that are registered as UNESCO Cultural Heritage sites. From Kinugawa Onsen to Kawaji Onsen, hot springs can also be found throughout the area. There are a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy as well, such as stand-up paddleboarding in the summer and snowshoeing in the winter.

Seasons in Tochigi