See & Do
Nikko Area

Heike Taisai (Grand Festival of Heike)

Summer
Events
Activities

A summer festival in the legendary Yunishigawa Onsen

A festival in order to in honor Heike Family

The Taira Clan (also called Heike), one of the most powerful family in Heian period, dominated the imperal captain of Heian. However, after the death of their leader, Taira no Kiyomori, their rivals the Minamoto Clan (the Genji),which culminated in the Genpei War (1180-1185 AD). The five-year-long war concluded with a decisive Taira defeat in the naval Battle of Dan-no-Ura.

It is said many Heike family and their samurais ran away from Genji’s army, and hided in Yunishigawa Onsen. In order to honor those samurai who fighting for the Heike family, people live in Yunishigawa Onsen hold the “Heike Taisai” every year.

Become a princess of Heike!

A traditional Yunishigawa festival held in early June, featuring Biwa (Japanese lute) performances, dances and theatrical plays. The highlight of the festival is the “Emaki Gyoretsu Procession”, where over 200 people dressed as heroic Samurais or elegant princesses parade through the town. Visitors can also apply to join the march.

Basic Information

Address	Yudonosan-jinja， Nikko-city， Tochigi
Telephone Number	0288-22-1525(Nikko City Tourism Association)
Website	https://www.visitnikko.jp/en/spots/heike-taisai/
Date	June 1-2
Venue	The eve of the festival: “Emaki Gyoretsu Procession” *approx.2-kilometre parade from Yudonosan-jinja Shrine to Heike no SatoOpening ceremony at Yudonosan-jinja ShrineShinto rituals at Heike no Sato
DIRECTIONS	17 minutes from Yunishigawa-Onsen Station by buses bound for Yunishigawa Onsen, then a 3-minute walk from Hotel Hana to Hana-mae bus stop.
Map Code	716 160 050*24

Nikko Area

The Nikko area, in the northwestern part of the prefecture, is particularly mountainous. In the midst of the rich nature, including the 2,486-meter-high volcano Mt. Nantai, Lake Chuzenji, and Kegon Falls, there are numerous shrines and temples that are registered as UNESCO Cultural Heritage sites. From Kinugawa Onsen to Kawaji Onsen, hot springs can also be found throughout the area. There are a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy as well, such as stand-up paddleboarding in the summer and snowshoeing in the winter.