Japanese name：高岡御車山祭（たかおかみくるまやままつり）
Event period：May
Venue：Toyama
A magnificent and dazzling float parade through the town, a traditional event linked to the Kaga Maeda family
【history】
The Takaoka Mikurumayama Festival is a traditional event held every year on May 1st in Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture. It is an extremely valuable festival nationwide, designated as both an Important Tangible and Intangible Folk Cultural Property by Japan.
Its origins go back to 1588 (Tensho 16). During the “Onumazeroe” ceremony held by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in Kyoto, Maeda Toshiie received a Goshoguruma (imperial carriage) from Hideyoshi, which was later brought to the town of Takaoka, marking the beginning of the tradition.
Based on this Goshoguruma, the townspeople built elaborate floats, and the festival developed as a ritual to pray for the town’s prosperity and safety. With its high level of prestige dating back to the Edo period and the essence of town culture fused into it, this festival is truly a source of pride for Takaoka.
【Feature】
The charm of the Takaoka Mikurumayama Festival lies, above all, in the gorgeous and splendid Mikurumayama floats.
Features of the Mikurumayama:
– Massive floats approximately 7 to 10 meters high
– A culmination of traditional crafts from the Hokuriku region, including Wajima lacquerware, Takaoka lacquerware, metalwork, and carvings
– Decorated with gold leaf and vividly colored carvings, resembling moving works of art
– Seven Mikurumayama floats parade through the town, each with its own unique design and history
The Mikurumayama floats are passed down through generations in each community, with restoration and maintenance carried out by local residents. Therefore, the festival is not just an event, but is cherished as a cultural asset symbolizing local pride and community bonds.
【Content】
The Takaoka Mikurumayama Festival is a spring event that enlivens the entire town, centered around the main festival on May 1st.
Main Schedule:
April 30: Eve Festival (Yoimatsuri)
The Mikurumayama floats are illuminated, allowing visitors to enjoy a magical pre-festival experience.
May 1: Main Festival
From the morning, all the Mikurumayama floats gather and slowly parade through the town. Pullers and musicians dressed in traditional costumes bring the festival to life.
Highlights:
Gathering (Seizoroi)
An impressive sight where all seven Mikurumayama floats are lined up together.
Parade
The appearance of huge floats moving through the narrow streets is full of excitement.
Craftsmanship
The detailed work in metal, lacquer, and carvings is stunning.
Pride of the townspeople
You can feel the skill and spirit passed down through generations.
How was it? There are still many fun things in Japan. Please be sure to try them when you visit Japan.
Let’s Enjoy！
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