Soma Nomaoi: dates, venue and how to get there
Minamisoma · 相馬野馬追
What to expect
Armoured riders take part in processions and mounted competitions. The street procession and the contests at Hibarigahara are different programmes, so select your day for the activity you want.
Photo: PekePON · CC BY-SA 3.0
Original date label: 2005-07-24 13:38:27 · Resized for display; the source file and reuse licence are linked below.
Festival dates and programme
Past edition
23–25 May 2026; next edition awaits official announcement
The dates refer to the edition shown, not every future year. Programme times are in JST. Japan is 3 hours 30 minutes ahead of IST. Check the organiser’s latest notices for individual performances, weather changes and tickets.
Where the festival takes place
Minamisoma · 南相馬
Hibarigahara festival grounds, Minamisoma
雲雀ヶ原祭場地
The location below marks one representative venue or route section. It is not the whole procession or every entrance; use the organiser’s venue map for your programme.
Getting there by train or bus
From Tokyo, take a JR Joban Line limited express to Haranomachi. Check the annual shuttle and access guide for Hibarigahara; events in Soma and Minamisoma are spread across separate locations.
Find a public transport route from your starting point ↗History and local traditions
Tradition connects Nomaoi with military horse training associated with Taira no Masakado. Shrine rituals preserve the region’s equestrian heritage.
Plan your visit
Use the daily programme to decide between roadside processions and the main grounds. Allow time for the onward journey from Haranomachi rather than treating the station as the venue.
Editorial suggestion based on the festival’s venues and viewing format; no personal attendance is claimed.
Soma Nomaoi: questions travellers ask
When is Soma Nomaoi?
Soma Nomaoi: 23–25 May 2026; next edition awaits official announcement. These dates refer only to the stated edition. Check the organiser’s daily programme and weather notices before travelling.
How do I get to Soma Nomaoi by public transport?
From Tokyo, take a JR Joban Line limited express to Haranomachi. Check the annual shuttle and access guide for Hibarigahara; events in Soma and Minamisoma are spread across separate locations.
Can I use an old July date to plan Soma Nomaoi?
No. The reviewed 2026 edition ran on 23–25 May. Use the organiser’s announcement for your travel year rather than older summer listings.
Official programme and sources
- www.city.soma.fukushima.jp: Official festival and visitor guidance ↗
- www.japan.travel: Official location, transport or historical reference ↗
Reviewed . Some official pages are in Japanese. Open the source for this edition’s venue, daily programme and access conditions.