On two occasions, I have had the pleasure of not only attending, but participating in one of the best matsuri (summer festivals) in all of Gunma. As it was explained to me, the basic premise of this festival was to carry a portable shrine around its local neighborhood, in order to bring it close to the older citizens that cannot make it to the actual shrine. Basically there is all lot of heavy lifting and methodical movements, all fueled by copious amounts of alcohol (It is a summer festival after all). Held over three evenings, each night culminates with all of the omikoshi from each neighborhood meeting in the center of town. Each one colliding against the others to demonstrate which group has the most enthusiasm.
- 1 min read
Kusatsu Matsuri
Best in Gunma
By C. Rio
Community writer
Explore nearby
Leave a comment
0 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Kura Sushi at 2025 Osaka Expo
Osaka - Sponsored -
2
Izumigaya Craft Inn Waraku
Shizuoka - Sponsored -
3
Luxury Food and Art Experiences in Tokyo
Tokyo - Sponsored -
4
Princess Adachi Festival
Tokyo - Sponsored -
5
Bar-Hopping & Seafood in Akashi City
Hyogo - Sponsored -
6
Miyoko Schinner’s Vegan Japan Tour
Culture -
7
Exploring Kanazawa with Free, Easy Wi-Fi
Ishikawa -
8
Hiking Around Azuchi Castle Ruins
Shiga -
9
Akashi City Gastronomy Event
Hyogo - Sponsored -
10
TeamLab: Hidden Traces of Rice Terraces
Ibaraki
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
3
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
4
Tokyo Christmas Market
Tokyo -
5
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
6
A Guide to Japanese Visas
Planning -
7
Nabana no Sato Illumination
Mie -
8
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
9
Tokushima Yokai Festival
Tokushima -
10
Tokyo Auto Salon
Chiba