Historical costumes, kagura, dengaku and bugaku feature in Nara’s shrine festival. The procession and traditional performances occur at different times and places.
Photo: Lovelin6th · CC BY-SA 4.0
Original date label: 2014-12-17. Original or supplied resized image; no additional editing.
Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri dates
Usually December 15–18; main procession and performances on December 17
Usual annual season · exact next dates not confirmed
Event dates and times use Japan Standard Time (JST). Usual annual dates are not a confirmed booking schedule for the next edition. Check the organizer’s notices for daily times, admission and weather-related changes.
Where to watch
Nara · 奈良
Kasuga Wakamiya Shrine and the Otabisho performance site
春日大社若宮・御旅所
The map marks one reference point, not the entire route or every entrance. For village rites or moving processions, use the organizer’s venue map.
View reference location on Google Maps ↗Getting there by train or bus
Travel to Kintetsu Nara or JR Nara Station and continue toward Kasuga Taisha. Use the official map to distinguish the shrine, procession route and Otabisho site.
History and traditions
The Wakamiya rites continue traditions from the Heian period, preserving music and dance offered to the deity.
Nearby places to consider
These sights can help you plan the rest of your visit. Check each location’s opening hours and access separately; festival road closures may affect the journey.
Before you visit Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri
When is Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri?
Usually December 15–18; main procession and performances on December 17. These are the usual seasonal dates, not a confirmed schedule for the next edition. Check the linked organizer for times and changes.
How do I get to Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri by public transportation?
Travel to Kintetsu Nara or JR Nara Station and continue toward Kasuga Taisha. Use the official map to distinguish the shrine, procession route and Otabisho site.
What should I plan before visiting Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri?
Choose the procession for costumes or the Otabisho timetable for music and dance. If staying for late performances, arrange the walk back to the station and your last train.
These planning suggestions are JapanLiveNow’s editorial advice. Admission and operating arrangements follow the organizer’s current program.
Official program and visitor information
- onmatsuri.kasugataisha.or.jp — official festival or destination information ↗
- www.kasugataisha.or.jp — official festival or destination information ↗
- www.city.nara.lg.jp — official festival or destination information ↗
This guide uses the shared festival source register reviewed on October 3, 2026. Official notices take priority over archive photos and previous editions.