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HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Samurai Parade in Yakage
Head to this town in Okayama to view a re-enactment of a feudal lord’s ceremonial procession
Yakage Town Tourism Organization
On the second Sunday in November, Yakage, in southwest Okayama, holds the Samurai Parade, a grand costumed parade that re-enacts the procession of the regional lord entering the town during the Edo Period (1603–1867). Yakage was once a prominent location on the road connecting Edo (now Tokyo) with western Japan. This road was used by Japan’s regional lords when they were required to travel to Edo every other year to serve the central military government.
These journeys were typically extravagant processions, with many retainers, to show the power and dignity of the lord. The re-enactment, staged along Yakage’s main street, involves some 80 people who play the roles of the regional lord, princess, handmaid, palanquin bearer and so on. Their colorful costumes are reminiscent of centuries ago. The parade slowly moves along the road like a traditional picture scroll unfolding, making you feel as if you’ve slipped back in time. Even though the town’s loudspeakers are constantly broadcasting the historically accurate command “shita ni, shita ni” (look down) all eyes are on this picturesque parade.
How to get there
Take the Shinkansen bullet train from Shin-Osaka Station to Okayama Station, the Hakubi Line to Kiyone Station, and then the Ibara Railway to Yakage Station. The parade takes place about 800 meter (about a 10-minute walk) from Yakage Station.
1989 Yakage, Yakage-cho, Oda-gu, Okayama-ken
