Hello from Takayama! While everyone here is celebrating the Takayama Spring Festival (Sanno Festival) held every year on April 14th and 15th—one of Gifu Prefecture’s most iconic seasonal events and a registered UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage—there’s another exciting festival just around the corner that we also look forward to every spring.
Just a short distance away, the Furukawa Festival is held annually on April 19th and 20th in the city of Hida Furukawa. This traditional spring event shares many of the same cultural elements and energy as the Takayama Festival and is also beloved by locals and visitors alike.
A highlight of the Furukawa Festival is the traditional children’s dance performed on elaborately decorated festival floats. Dressed in bright, colorful costumes, the children perform carefully choreographed dances, including karakuri (mechanical puppet) performances and children’s kabuki. These performances reflect the deep cultural traditions of Hida Furukawa and are a symbol of spring’s arrival.
Another exciting highlight is the Shishimai (Lion Dance). Accompanied by taiko drums and flute music, the lion dancers bring excitement to the streets as they perform to ward off bad luck and bring good health. If you’re lucky, you may receive a gentle “bite” from the lion—a gesture said to bring blessings and protection.
How to get to Hida Furukawa from Takayama Station:
Hida Furukawa is an easy 15-minute train ride from Takayama Station via the JR Takayama Line. With its charming townscape, slower pace, and vibrant spring festivities, it’s a perfect day trip destination from Takayama City.
We hope to see you in Takayama soon!
