Azuchi Nobunaga Festival 2026

Why You Should Visit

An annual autumn festival in Azuchi, Omihachiman, where Oda Nobunaga built Azuchi Castle. Armored samurai and princesses parade through the old castle town on the 15th, a Rakuichi-Rakuza market sells local products, and a special stage runs at Bungei-no-Sato Ground. 2026 marks 450 years since Azuchi Castle was built, so the festival is bigger than usual and runs over two consecutive days. Actors Jun Kaname (Akechi Mitsuhide) and Tetsuhiro Ikeda (Niwa Nagahide) from the NHK taiga drama "Toyotomi Kyodai!" make special appearances. Free to watch — a good pick for fans of samurai history and Japanese castles.

Programs

Timetable & Map

Essentials

location

Bungei-no-Sato Ground (special stage) and the old castle town of Azuchi, Omihachiman (Shiga)

period

November 14, 2026 (Sat) - November 15, 2026 (Sun)

Time

10:00–16:00

cost

Free to watch (food and goods at the market are priced by each vendor)

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

Shuttle buses run to Bungei-no-Sato from JR Azuchi Station and the Azuchi Town General Branch Office. Visitors are asked to use public transport where possible. Drivers can use the Bungei-no-Sato or Azuchi Branch Office car parks.

NOTE

Special guests

Jun Kaname (Akechi Mitsuhide in the NHK taiga drama "Toyotomi Kyodai!")
Tetsuhiro Ikeda (Niwa Nagahide in the same drama)

※There is no parking at the opening-ceremony venue (Azuchi Elementary School)

※Enquiries: Azuchi School District Community Council 0748-46-2346 / Azuchi Station Tourist Information 0748-46-4234 / Azuchi Chamber of Commerce 0748-46-2389

FAQ

Is there an admission fee?

Watching is free. Food and shopping at the market are priced by each vendor.

Is there parking?

Visitors are directed to the Bungei-no-Sato and Azuchi Branch Office car parks, served by shuttle buses. There is no parking at Azuchi Elementary School, the opening-ceremony venue.

What happens if it rains?

In wet weather the samurai procession is cancelled, and commemorative photo sessions and other activities are held at Azuchi Mariette instead.

Which day will Jun Kaname and Tetsuhiro Ikeda appear?

The day and time have not been announced yet. Check the official Azuchi Nobunaga Festival page.

Calendar

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