Ultimate Guide to the Chichibu Yomatsuri Festival 2024: Dates, Highlights, and More!

Chichibu, a charming Japanese city nestled in the mountains of Saitama Prefecture, is home to one of Japan’s most spectacular winter festivals. The Chichibu Yomatsuri, or Chichibu Night Festival, is a dazzling celebration that brings warmth and light to Japan’s cold December nights. This UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event is renowned for its elaborate floats, vibrant performances, and breathtaking fireworks display. Join us as we explore this magical festival that draws visitors from Japan and beyond.

In order to reach Chichibu from Tokyo, take the Seibu Limited Express from Ikebukero Station directly to Seibu-Chichibu Station. The journey takes about an hour and 50 minutes. The festival area is just a short walk away from the station.

The Chichibu Yomatsuri offers a variety of rich and engaging experiences. Here are some of the key highlights you can expect.

Spectacular floats parade

The centerpiece of the festival is the parade of six enormous floats: two known as kasahoko, and the other four known as yatai. These two-story tall masterpieces are adorned with intricate carvings, tapestries, and lanterns. Each float, weighing up to 20 tons, is manually pulled through the streets by teams of locals, creating an impressive display of community strength, coordination, and spirit.

Mesmerizing kabuki performances

As the floats pass through the city, they stop at designated areas for kabuki performances. These short plays, performed by local artists atop the moving stages, add a touch of traditional Japanese theater to the festivities.

Breathtaking fireworks display

The climax of the festival is undoubtedly the fireworks show on the second night. Around 5,000 fireworks illuminate the night sky over a two-hour period, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that perfectly complements the illuminated floats below.

Local Delicacies and Warming Drinks

Food stalls line the streets, offering a variety of local specialties and warming winter treats. Don’t miss the chance to try Chichibu’s famous warming sake, perfect for keeping the winter chill at bay.

While attending the Chichibu Yomatsuri, take some time to explore Chichibu’s other notable attractions:

Hitsujiyama Park

Hitsujiyama Park, located near Seibu-Chichibu Station, is famous for its stunning seasonal flower displays. If you are there in the spring, check out their annual Chichibu Shibazakura Festival, celebrating the beautiful shiba-zakura (moss phlox) in bloom. The park offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains and is a great place to relax before enjoying the festival.

Chichibu Muse Park

Chichibu Muse Park is another must-visit spot in the city. The park features walking trails, beautiful gardens, an observatory, and outdoor activities, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers and families. If the timing is right, you may be able to catch a glimpse of a mesmerizing “sea of clouds” phenomenon from the observation deck.

Mitsumine Shrine

Nestled within the nearby mountains, Mitsumine Shrine is known for its ancient and unique architectural style as well as its breathtaking views of the Chichibu basin.

For those planning to stay overnight in Chichibu, here are some of the best hotels that put you right near the festival.

Natural Farm City Noen Hotel

Natural Farm City Noen Hotel offers a unique blend of comfort and nature. Located on a hilltop, the hotel provides panoramic views of Chichibu City and the surrounding mountains. Guests can enjoy farm-fresh meals and relax in the hotel's onsen (hot spring) facilities.

Hotel Route-Inn Seibu Chichibu Ekimae

Hotel Route-Inn Seibu Chichibu Eikimae is a budget-friendly option located close to Seibu-Chichibu Station. The hotel offers clean and comfortable accommodations with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and a complimentary breakfast.

Hotel Miyama

Conveniently located near Seibu-Chichibu Station, Hotel Miyama offers a comfortable and accessible stay. This modern hotel features clean, minimalist rooms equipped with all the essentials, as well as on-site facilities including a communal bath. Guests can choose from various room types, all offering pleasant views of the city and surrounding mountain ranges.