If you're in Kumamoto in September, don't miss the Fujisaki Hachimangu Autumn Festival — the city's biggest festival, with over 1,000 years of history. In 2026 it runs September 13–21, and the grand finale, the Shinkoshiki procession (Umaoi), is on Sunday, September 20 — right on a 3-day holiday weekend, perfect for a Kumamoto road trip.
2026 Key Dates
- Sept 13 (Sun): Opening rites and lion dance dedication (10:00)
- Sept 14–18: Various Shinto ceremonies
- Sept 20 (Sun) — Shinkoshiki (Umaoi) ★ Main event: morning procession 6:00 AM, evening procession 2:00 PM
- Sept 21 (Mon, holiday): Closing ceremony
What is "Umaoi"? Kumamoto's Most Electric Day
On procession day, roughly 60 groups and more than ten thousand followers called seko lead lavishly decorated horses through central Kumamoto, chanting to drums and trumpets. The whole city comes alive from dawn — it's Kumamoto at its most passionate.
💡 Viewing tips: The route passes Shinmachi and the Kamitori/Shimotori arcades — the covered arcades are shaded and comfortable. From 9:00 AM on Sept 20, free Noh theatre is performed at the Shinmachi Otabisho (limited seating).
Driving & Parking
- Road closures: Central Kumamoto has extensive closures on Sept 20 — don't drive near the route.
- Best approach: Park on the outskirts (e.g. near Sakuramachi Bus Terminal) and walk or take the tram.
- From MOVA Villa: about 35 minutes by car from our Koshi villas — leave early and you'll easily catch the 6:00 AM procession.
FAQ
When is the Fujisaki Hachimangu Festival 2026?
September 13–21, 2026. The highlight, the Shinkoshiki grand procession (Umaoi), takes place on Sunday, September 20: the morning procession departs at 6:00 AM and the evening procession returns at 2:00 PM.
What is Umaoi and where is the best place to watch?
Around 60 groups and over ten thousand participants parade decorated horses through central Kumamoto with drums, trumpets and distinctive chants. The route passes Shinmachi and the Kamitori/Shimotori shopping arcades — the covered arcades offer shade and great views.
Do I need a ticket?
No. Watching along the route is completely free. On Sept 20 from around 9:00 AM, free Noh theatre performances are also held at the Shinmachi Otabisho.
Will there be traffic restrictions?
Yes. On Sept 20 many roads in central Kumamoto are closed. Park on the city outskirts and walk or take the tram in.
Where should I stay for the festival?
The festival falls on a 3-day holiday weekend and downtown hotels sell out early. MOVA Villa's Koshi area villas are a 35-minute drive from the city centre, with free parking and full kitchens — ideal for families and groups.
Where to Stay: Downtown Hotels Sell Out — Book a Private Villa
The 2026 procession falls on a holiday weekend (Sept 19–21) and central hotels fill up months ahead at premium prices.
MOVA Villa Koshi is a 35-minute drive from downtown: 9 private villas sleeping 4–8, each with free parking and a full kitchen. Watch the evening procession, drive back, cook dinner, and head to Aso the next morning.
👉 Check Koshi availability | Ozu villas (gateway to Aso) | Okino villas (5 houses side-by-side for large groups)
加入好友