For lovers of Japanese culture and traditional festivals, the Ogikubo Hachiman Grand Festival is a dream come true. You’ll get a chance to explore everything from tree exhibitions to takoyaki outside the Ogikubo Hachiman Shrine.
What to expect
All of the trimmings of a traditional Japanese festival will be scattered around the shrine. You can take a break for festival food, drinks, and regular live events. However, there will also be some unique events, such as a bonsai tree display and a local kendo exhibition. If that’s not enough, listen to live music (with both drum and dance performances) and feast your eyes on a mikoshi (portable shrine) parade to amp up the traditional spirit.
Schedule
While there will be entertainment and stalls on Saturday, the big events happen on Sunday. Here are some highlights.
Sep. 17 (Sun.)
- 13:30: The mikoshi shrine parade will enter the grounds.
- 14:00: There will be a local kendo competition.
- 17:00: See a Japanese drum performance.