Soma Nomaoi
MatsuriTohoku(Fukushima)
Annual eventDates
2026-07-25 — 2026-07-27
Venue
Hibarigahara Field and Odaka Shrine
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
CrowdedSamurai horse festival in Fukushima with mounted warriors in armor.
Soma Nomaoi is a spectacular samurai festival with over 1,000 years of history, held in the Soma region of Fukushima Prefecture. Riders in full samurai armor charge across the field on horseback, compete in flag-catching contests, and participate in horse races. The festival preserves the military training traditions of the Soma clan and is designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.
Highlights
Armored horseback races (Kacchu Keiba) on the open field; Shinki Sodatsusen: mounted warriors competing to catch sacred flags; Grand procession of over 400 samurai riders through the streets
Access
JR Joban Line to Haranomachi Station, then shuttle bus to Hibarigahara Field. From Tokyo, take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Sendai, then JR Joban Line (about 4 hours total).
Tips for Visitors
The main day is July 26 with the armored races and flag-catching. Bring sun protection and water as the field has little shade. Reserved seating is available and recommended for the best views of the races.