Kanazawa, a city rich in samurai history and cultural heritage, is home to some of Japan’s most exciting festivals. From grand parades to lively shrine celebrations, these events offer a unique opportunity to experience the traditions, performances, and vibrant spirit of Kanazawa.
If you’re planning a trip to Kanazawa, consider timing your visit to coincide with one of its iconic festivals. In this guide, we’ll introduce the best festivals in Kanazawa, what makes them special, and how you can enjoy them as a visitor.
■ Table of Contents
Hyakumangoku Festival – Kanazawa’s Biggest Celebration
Ōno Minato Shrine Summer Grand Festival & Ōno Hiyoshi Shrine Sannō Festival
Other Must-See Festivals in Kanazawa
Festivals of Noto: A Celebration of Tradition and Spirit
Why You Should Experience Kanazawa’s Festivals
■ Hyakumangoku Festival – Kanazawa’s Biggest Celebration
The Hyakumangoku Festival is Kanazawa’s most famous and grandest event, held annually on the first weekend of June. It commemorates Maeda Toshiie’s entry into Kanazawa Castle in 1583, marking the beginning of the Maeda Clan’s rule and the city’s prosperity.
Festival Highlights
• Grand Samurai Parade: A reenactment of Lord Maeda’s arrival in Kanazawa, featuring participants dressed in samurai armor, kimono, and traditional costumes. The procession moves through the city to Kanazawa Castle, accompanied by taiko drummers, performers, and locals in traditional attire.
• Geisha Performances: The festival includes geisha performances in the Higashi Chaya and Kazuemachi Chaya districts, where visitors can witness elegant dances and music.
• Taiko Drumming and Traditional Dances: Throughout the event, you’ll hear the deep, rhythmic beats of taiko drums, adding to the energetic atmosphere.
Hyakumangoku Festival: http://100mangoku.net/foreign/
■ Ōno Minato Shrine Summer Grand Festival & Ōno Hiyoshi Shrine Sannō Festival
Kanazawa’s Ōno district, a port town, is home to two significant traditional festivals: the Ōno Minato Shrine Summer Grand Festival and the Ōno Hiyoshi Shrine Sannō Festival. These festivals celebrate the region’s rich maritime heritage and deep-rooted Shinto traditions.
Ōno Hiyoshi Shrine Sannō Festival
The Ōno Hiyoshi Shrine Sannō Festival is a traditional event held every July in Kanazawa’s Ōno district. This festival is dedicated to Hiyoshi Shrine, which has deep historical and spiritual significance in the region.
The festival features a lively mikoshi (portable shrine) procession, where locals carry the shrine through the streets to bring blessings and protection to the community. Other highlights include shishimai (lion dances), kagura performances, and taiko drumming, creating an energetic and festive atmosphere.
At IN KANAZAWA HOUSE, members of the Ōno Shishimai Preservation Society, who perform the lion dance (shishimai) at the Sannō Festival, recreate the festival in an exclusive setting.
This is a rare and precious opportunity to witness their performance, which is usually only seen during the actual festival.
IN KANAZAWA HOUSE : https://www.in-kanazawa.com/matsuri-night-festival
Ōno Minato Shrine Summer Grand Festival
Held in early August, this festival honors Ōno Minato Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine linked to Kanazawa’s coastal community. The highlight is the portable shrine (mikoshi) procession, where locals carry an ornate shrine through the streets to bring blessings to the town. The festival also features shishimai (lion dances), taiko drumming, and vibrant performances, creating a lively summer atmosphere.
■ Other Must-See Festivals in Kanazawa
Kanazawa Fireworks Festival
Held in late July, this festival features a breathtaking fireworks display over the Saigawa River, attracting thousands of spectators. The riverbanks fill with families, friends, and visitors enjoying the summer festival atmosphere.
Kanazawa Odori
Kanazawa Odori is a traditional geisha dance performance held every September in Kanazawa. Geisha from the Higashi, Nishi, and Kazuemachi Chaya districts perform elegant dances, music, and storytelling, showcasing Kanazawa’s refined artistry. This event offers a rare glimpse into the city’s rich geisha culture.
■ Festivals of Noto: A Celebration of Tradition and Spirit
Less than an hour’s drive north from Kanazawa brings you to the gateway of the Noto region. It is no exaggeration to say that Noto’s summer begins and ends with festivals, as local celebrations take place almost every week in different areas.
Due to the impact of recent earthquakes, some festivals have been canceled or scaled down, but many still preserve a distinct festival culture that differs from Kanazawa’s, maintaining their unique traditions and vibrant spirit.
One of the most famous is the Abare Festival in Noto Town, held in July, where participants carry massive torches and portable shrines (mikoshi), setting them on fire in a dramatic display of energy and devotion.
In Wajima, the Wajima Taisai in August features giant festival floats (Kiriko) illuminated at night, creating a breathtaking sight.
These festivals reflect Noto’s strong community spirit and rich cultural heritage, making them a must-see for visitors who want to experience authentic Japanese traditions.
■ Why You Should Experience Kanazawa’s Festivals
Attending a festival in Kanazawa is one of the best ways to experience Japanese traditions, history, and community spirit. Whether you witness the samurai procession of the Hyakumangoku Festival, enjoy the festive energy of the Sannō Festival, or relax under the summer fireworks, these events offer unforgettable experiences.
Reasons to Experience a Kanazawa Festival:
・Immerse yourself in samurai history – The Hyakumangoku Festival brings Kanazawa’s feudal past to life.
・ Enjoy traditional performances – See geisha, taiko drumming, and shishimai (lion dances) up close.
・ Experience a lively summer atmosphere – Fireworks, food stalls, and Bon Odori dances make summer in Kanazawa unforgettable.
・ Discover hidden cultural gems – The Sannō Festival and other local events provide a deeper look into Kanazawa’s traditions.
Final Thoughts: Celebrate Tradition in Kanazawa
If you’re planning a trip to Kanazawa, experiencing one of its festivals is a fantastic way to connect with Japanese culture. From the historic grandeur of the Hyakumangoku Festival to the intimate shrine atmosphere of the Sannō Festival, each event showcases a different side of Kanazawa’s rich heritage and lively traditions.