Niigata Matsuri 2024

The Niigata Matsuri (Niigata Festival) has its origins in Minato Moto Shrine, established by ship merchants in Niigata, a port city frequented by Kitamae-bune (northern-bound ships). The shrine was founded in 1726 (during the 11th year of the Kyoho era) when the Mōhōya merchant in charge invited a divine object from Sumiyoshi Shrine in Osaka. This event marked the beginning of the Niigata Matsuri. The shrine, originally known as Tsumoto Jinja, is now relocated within Hakusan Shrine as Sumiyoshi Shrine.

The festival itself traces its roots to the Sumiyoshi Parade (Sumiyoshi Gyoretsu), part of the Sumiyoshi Festival held in 1726. In 1955 (Showa 30), the Niigata Matsuri was established by combining four festivals: the Sumiyoshi Parade, Kawabiraki (river opening ceremony), Kaiko Kinensai (port opening commemorative festival), and Shoko-sai (commerce and industry festival). The history of the festival is still evident in the Sumiyoshi Parade and the Mikoshi (portable shrine) procession on water.

As one of the major festivals held in regional cities in Japan, the Niigata Matsuri is known for its large scale, including a substantial fireworks display.

 

 

 

 

Event Summary

Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture

Period
Festival will be held August 4-6, 2024

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