Fukushima Travel – Iizaka Kenka Matsuri

From October 3 to 5, the Hachiman Shrine Grand Festival was held in Iizaka Onsen, Fukushima City, bringing the historic hot spring town to life with energy, rhythm, and tradition. On the night of October 4, the highlight event — the Iizaka Kenka Matsuri (Fighting Festival) — took place, recognized as one of Japan’s Three Great Kenka (Finghting) Festivals.

The festival reaches its peak when massive festival floats (dashi), pulled by teams of local men, surge into the shrine grounds with powerful shouts and drumming. As the floats collide head-on in a spectacular display of strength and spirit, the crowd roars in excitement. The sound of drums, the clashing of wooden frames, and the glow of lanterns create an electrifying atmosphere that captures the very soul of Japan’s traditional festivals.

This unique Fukushima festival is not only a thrilling spectacle but also a sacred ritual to honor the gods and pray for good fortune and prosperity. The participants’ passion and dedication reflect centuries of cultural heritage, preserved and passed down through generations in the community of Iizaka Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot spring towns.

Visitors can also enjoy the nostalgic charm of the hot spring district — narrow streets lined with ryokan inns, the soothing sound of flowing water, and the scent of traditional Japanese cuisine wafting through the air. Experiencing the Iizaka Kenka Matsuri offers a rare glimpse into the living traditions of Tohoku and the enduring spirit of local Japan.

Because public transportation and festival crowds can make access challenging, we recommend joining Deep Japan Tours. Our guided tours make it easy to experience the festival safely and deeply, combining culture, tradition, and travel into one unforgettable journey through Fukushima’s vibrant autumn season.

https://www.gurutto-fukushima.com/travel/kenka/index.html