Official Date for Takayama Setsubun 2026

The Setsubun festival always occurs on February 3 in Takayama and throughout Japan. This date remains consistent because it aligns with the traditional Japanese lunar calendar transition. You should plan your visit for the afternoon of February 3, 2026, to see the main events. Most ceremonies begin around 1:00 PM and finish by the early evening hours.

The festival serves as a vital part of the broader Takayama winter festival schedule 2026 events. While the date is fixed, the specific times for individual temple rites may vary slightly. Checking the local tourism boards in January 2026 will provide the most accurate daily schedule. Most major activities are free for the public to observe and enjoy.

Expect the city to be busy with locals and tourists celebrating this ancient spring tradition. The atmosphere is festive as people prepare to welcome a new season of growth and health. You will find many shops in the Old Town selling special festival goods and snacks. It is a perfect time to experience authentic Japanese culture in a mountain setting.

Best Locations to Watch Setsubun Rituals

Hida Kokubun-ji Temple is the primary location for the most spectacular Setsubun ceremonies in Takayama. This historic temple features a massive ginkgo tree that looks beautiful even during the cold winter months. You can watch the famous Seven Lucky Gods parade start from this central religious site. The temple grounds provide ample space for visitors to gather and watch the colorful performances.

Another excellent spot to witness the festivities is the Sanmachi Suji historic district in the Old Town. These narrow streets offer a perfect backdrop for the traditional winter ceremonies in Takayama Old Town. You might see performers dressed as demons wandering through the preserved wooden buildings. This area captures the true spirit of the Edo period during the festival.

For more information on local sites, you can visit the official Gifu tourism website for maps. Several smaller neighborhood shrines also hold their own private bean-throwing events for local residents. Walking between these locations is easy because the city center is very compact and pedestrian-friendly. Most major landmarks are within a fifteen-minute walk from the main Takayama train station.

You should arrive at Hida Kokubun-ji at least thirty minutes before the scheduled start time. This ensures you get a clear view of the priests and the costumed performers. The temple is located at 1-83 Souwamachi, which is very close to the central shopping streets. Admission to the temple grounds is free for all festival participants and observers.

Traditional Activities and Bean Throwing

The most famous activity during the festival is the Mamemaki or bean-throwing ritual. Participants throw roasted soybeans while shouting for demons to leave and good luck to enter. This lively tradition is one of the best events in Takayama during February 2026. Children especially enjoy catching the small packets of beans thrown by the Seven Lucky Gods.

You will see performers wearing elaborate masks representing red and blue demons called Oni. These characters represent the bad luck and illness that people want to drive away. The ritual is loud, energetic, and filled with laughter from the gathered crowds. It is a great way to see how Japanese families celebrate their heritage together.

Another delicious tradition involves eating a special long sushi roll called Eho-maki. You must eat the entire roll in silence while facing the lucky direction for the year. Local convenience stores and markets in Takayama will sell these rolls throughout the festival day. This practice is believed to grant your wishes for the upcoming spring season.

Travel Tips for Takayama in February

February is one of the coldest months in the Japanese Alps with frequent snowfall. You must wear heavy layers, thermal underwear, and waterproof boots to stay warm and dry. The temperature often drops below freezing during the evening Setsubun celebrations. Many temples have outdoor viewing areas, so standing still for long periods can be very chilly.

Booking your accommodation early is essential for the winter festival season in the Gifu prefecture. Many travelers visit for the family-friendly winter events in Takayama 2026. Hotels near the station fill up quickly for the dates surrounding February 3. Consider staying in a traditional ryokan to experience local hospitality and hot spring baths.

Public transportation remains reliable during the winter, but snow can sometimes cause minor bus delays. The Nohi Bus company operates regular services to nearby attractions like the Shirakawa-go village. You can use a Japan Rail Pass to reach Takayama from Nagoya or Toyama easily. Walking is the best way to see the festival, so bring sturdy shoes with good grip.

Remember that many smaller shops might close early on the day of the festival. Plan your dinner reservations in advance as popular restaurants in the Old Town get very crowded. Trying the local Hida beef is a must-do activity for any visitor to the region. The warm atmosphere of the local sake breweries also provides a great escape from the cold.