Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri
ReligiousKansai(Nara)
Annual eventDates
—
Venue
Kasuga Taisha Shrine & Wakamiya Shrine
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Moderate crowd
Photos
Ancient Shinto festival at Kasuga Shrine with 900 years of unbroken tradition.
Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri is one of Japan's oldest continuously held festivals, dating back to 1136. The four-day celebration features sacred Kagura dances, a grand costumed procession recreating historical eras, and Noh performances under torchlight at the ancient shrine grounds. It is designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
At a Glance
- Type
- Religious
- Dates
- 2026-12-15 – 2026-12-18
- Venue
- Kasuga Taisha Shrine & Wakamiya Shrine
- Status
- Scheduled
- Crowd Level
- Moderate crowd
- Admission
- Free
- Annual event
- Annual
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri take place?
Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri takes place from 2026-12-15 to 2026-12-18.
Where is Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri held?
Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri is held at Kasuga Taisha Shrine & Wakamiya Shrine in Nara, Japan.
Where can I confirm the official status of Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri?
Use the official source for the latest schedule, route changes, and cancellation updates: https://www.kasugataisha.or.jp/onmatsuri/.
What is the current status of Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri?
The current listing status is scheduled. Last checked: 2026-08-04.
Is Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri free to attend?
Yes, Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri is free to attend.
What is the admission fee for Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri?
The admission fee for Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri is ¥0.
How crowded is Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri?
The typical crowd level is moderate.
What are the highlights of Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri?
Grand costumed procession (Owaatari) with 1,000+ participants recreating Heian to Edo eras; Torchlight Noh performances at the ancient shrine; Sacred Kagura dances and traditional court music offerings
How do I get to Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri?
JR or Kintetsu Nara Station, then Nara Kotsu bus to Kasuga Taisha Honden-mae (approx. 15 min). Walking from Nara Station takes about 30 minutes through Nara Park.
What should I know before attending Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri?
The Owaatari procession on December 17 is the main highlight — arrive early to secure a viewing spot along Sanjo-dori. Torchlight Noh on the 17th evening is free but seating is limited. Dress warmly as temperatures drop significantly at night.
Highlights
Grand costumed procession (Owaatari) with 1,000+ participants recreating Heian to Edo eras; Torchlight Noh performances at the ancient shrine; Sacred Kagura dances and traditional court music offerings
Access
JR or Kintetsu Nara Station, then Nara Kotsu bus to Kasuga Taisha Honden-mae (approx. 15 min). Walking from Nara Station takes about 30 minutes through Nara Park.
Tips for Visitors
The Owaatari procession on December 17 is the main highlight — arrive early to secure a viewing spot along Sanjo-dori. Torchlight Noh on the 17th evening is free but seating is limited. Dress warmly as temperatures drop significantly at night.
Location
📍 Kasuga Taisha Shrine & Wakamiya Shrine