Ako Gishi Festival (123rd) 2026｜12/14(Mon) Access & Fees

Why You Should Visit

Held every year on December 14 — the anniversary of the Ako ronin's famous raid — this festival in Ako City reaches its 123rd edition in 2026. The castle town from the Ako Castle ruins along Oshiro-dori Street to Ikitsugi Hiroba Plaza becomes the stage. The centerpiece is the Gishi Procession of participants dressed as the 47 loyal retainers, with actor Ken Matsudaira appearing as their leader Oishi Kuranosuke this year. Food stalls line the streets and a market gathers specialties from towns linked to the Chushingura story. A good day out for anyone curious about Japan's best-known samurai revenge tale.

Essentials

location

Around Ako Castle ruins, Oshiro-dori Street and Ikitsugi Hiroba Plaza

period

December 14, 2026 (Mon)

Time

Approx. 10:00–16:00
・Parades approx. 10:00–15:00 (planned)
・Food stalls approx. 10:00–16:00
・Chushingura product market approx. 10:00–16:00

cost

No viewing fee information published

Links

Official Website

Kobe · Gluten-free

Basque cheesecakeBaked with rice flour, no wheat. Whole 12cm, serves 2-3¥4,700 incl. shipping (Japan only)

access

No transport or parking information published yet

NOTE

Main program

Gishi Procession (the finale runs about 0.6 km from the Ako Castle ruins to Ikitsugi Hiroba Plaza)
Special guest: Ken Matsudaira as Oishi Kuranosuke
Food stalls
Chushingura exchange market (specialties from towns linked to the Chushingura story)
Events at various spots around the city

※Subject to change

FAQ

When is it held each year?

Every year on December 14, the date of the Ako ronin's raid. In 2026 it falls on Monday, December 14.

Where can I see the Gishi Procession?

The festival area covers the Ako Castle ruins, Oshiro-dori Street and around Ikitsugi Hiroba Plaza. The finale section runs about 0.6 km from the castle ruins to the plaza. The detailed route and timing have not been announced yet.

Who can I contact for details?

Ako City Tourism Division (0791-43-6839).

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