What it is
Takahama is a seaside town on Wakasa Bay in western Fukui. Its Sakichi Shrine holds a great festival once every six years, in the years of the Snake and the Boar. It is called the “seven-year festival” because the old way of counting included both the first and last years.
For about a week in June, the town’s mikoshi are carried through the streets and into the sea, and each district performs its own dances and music. The last festival was in 2025, and the next is expected in 2031.
The festival at a glance
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| About 7 days in June | Festival week: Mikoshi are carried through the town and into the sea, with performances by each district |
Which day should you go?
Check the year's programme
The main mikoshi events are spread over the week. The next festival is in 2031.
What to look for
Mikoshi in the sea
Bearers dressed in white carry the mikoshi into the waves.
Six years, called seven
The festival is held in the years of the Snake and the Boar. Counting both ends, as was traditional, makes the gap seven years.
Getting there & where to stay
| From | How | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Kyoto | JR via Ayabe and Higashi-Maizuru to Wakasa-Takahama | about 2 h |
| Osaka | JR via Kyoto or Fukuchiyama to Wakasa-Takahama | about 2 h 30 min |
On the day. Sakichi Shrine and the beaches are a short walk from Wakasa-Takahama Station.
Crowds. The festival is held only every six years and draws large crowds to a small town.
Where to stay
Takahama
Beach inns and guesthouses near the festival.
Obama
A larger town about 30 minutes away by JR.
When to book. The next festival is in 2031. Book as soon as dates are announced.
Times are typical fastest routes. Check current timetables before you travel.
Practical tips
- Plan ahead. The festival is rare, so check the town's programme when it is announced.
Glossary
Mikoshi神輿
A portable shrine. During the festival the kami rides inside while people carry it through the neighborhood.
Matsuri祭り
A Japanese festival, usually held for the kami of a local shrine. The word comes from the idea of serving and entertaining the gods.
References
- Takahama Town: Takahama Shichinen-sai.
- Fukui Prefecture tourism: Takahama Shichinen-sai.
Last checked 2026-10-13.