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- English
Experience Japan’s Traditional Mikoshi Parade in Kichijoji. On September 12 and 13, the streets come alive with the Kichijoji Autumn Festival, a perfect chance to witness a traditional Japanese celebration featuring a parade of Mikoshi portable shrines. See up to 11 Mikoshi, one from Musashino Hachimangu Shrine and ten from each district of the town. Each group has its own distinct style of carrying, chanting, and celebrating, making for a truly unique and exciting experience. At the festival’s highlight, all the Mikoshi gather for an impressive performance full of energy and excitement.
Join this tour and let your guide share the stories and traditions behind this vibrant festival while exploring Kichijoji’s lively streets. On September 12, you can even carry a Mikoshi alongside the locals and parade it through the town, a chance you don't want to miss!
Kichijoji is just 15 minutes by train from Shibuya or Shinjuku, making it a perfect stop after visiting Inokashira Park.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Meet up at the Information desk on the 1st floor of the Atre Main Building, directly connected to Kichijoji Station. You can look for the flower shop next to the information desk as a landmark.
Itinerary
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1Kichijoji Daiyagai
One of Kichijoji’s major shopping streets and the heart of the festival action! On September 12, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., you’ll don a Hanten festival jacket and join the townspeople in carrying a Mikoshi, parading through the lively streets. Feel the energy and rhythm of the festival as a Mikoshi carrier and become part of this unforgettable tradition.
1 hour 40 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Musashino Hachimangu
This guardian shrine of Kichijoji dates back to the 8th century. After the Great Meireki Fire in the 17th century, people from Edo rebuilt their lives in this area, establishing the town around the shrine. Today, locals visit Musashino Hachimangu to pray during New Year’s celebrations, festivals, family events, and more. On September 13, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., you’ll visit the shrine to learn about its history and the festival. Lastly, stroll through the town in festive spirit and witness the demonstration of all Mikoshi together, the highlight of the celebration.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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