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Murakami Grand Festival

A must-see magical parade of floats! Near 400 years of legends come alive at this larger-than-life festival.

Last update : 23 Jun 2024

Head Editor : Murakami City Tourism Association

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The annual festival of Senami Haguro Shrine kicks off with a night festival on July 6th and the main festival on July 7th. The festival dates back to 1633, during the Edo period, when the then-lord of the Murakami domain built a new shrine and held a ceremonial relocation, marking the festival's beginning.

Swing by on festival day to find three mikoshi (portable shrines) hoisted as they parade through the town, led by 14 spirited horses and a procession of children. Following these is the highlight of the festival: the "Oshagiri" (decorated floats). These elaborate floats, representing the 19 towns of Murakami City, are adorned with traditional Murakami crafts such as carvings and lacquerwork. Each town's float features unique decorations, and some are over 200 years old. The historical significance of the festival has earned it a designation as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan.

Expect different pop-up stalls along the streets during the festival, drawing visitors from far and wide. One special perk of the Murakami Grand Festival is the stalls keep extended hours until the following day, July 8th so that everyone in the festival and visitors alike can still enjoy the festivities.

Highlights

The annual festival of Senami Haguro Shrine boasts nearly 400 years of history.
Held every year with a night festival on July 6th and the main festival on July 7th.
The "Oshagiri" floats, decorated with traditional crafts, parade through the streets.
Designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan.
The festival attracts many tourists, with stalls remaining open until July 8th.

Photos

The stunning procession of Oshagiri floats, adorned with lacquer and intricate carvings.
The floats are illuminated with lanterns in the evening, creating a magical atmosphere.
Each of the 19 floats has unique features, offering a spectacular viewing experience.

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Details

Name in Japanese: 村上大祭
Postal Code: 958-0851
Location: 6-16 Haguromachi, Murakami City, Niigata (Senami Haguro Shrine)
Telephone: 0254-53-2258 (Murakami Station Tourist Information Center)
Schedule: July 6 and 7
Access: (1)About 20 minutes walk from JR Uetsu Main Line’s Murakami Station.
(2)About 3 minutes by car from Nihonkai Tohoku Expressway Murakami-Senamionsen Interchange. (Senami Haguro Shrine)
Official Website: Official Website (English)