One of Japan’s most colourful festivals — on the second Saturday of June, over 100 horses decorated with elaborate lacquerwork, embroidery and bells parade some 15 km from Onkoshi Shrine in Takizawa to Morioka Hachimangu Shrine. The gentle ‘chagu-chagu’ ringing of the horses' bells gives the festival its onomatopoeic name.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Takizawa → Morioka, Iwate |
| Hours | 2nd Saturday of June (morning–afternoon) |
| Admission | Free |
| Time needed | 2–3 hours |
| Best time | Second Saturday of June |
Highlights
- 100+ decorated horses in lacquer, embroidery and bells.
- The gentle ‘chagu-chagu’ bell sound of the parade.
- A 15 km route from Takizawa to Morioka Hachimangu.
- Riders and children in traditional dress.
Combine Your Visit
- See the parade’s end at Morioka Hachimangu Shrine .
- Pair with the Morioka Castle ruins .
- Slurp wanko soba in town.
Getting There
- By train: JR to Morioka; the route ends at Hachimangu.
- Viewing: popular spots along the route and at the shrine.
Tips
The full parade takes several hours over 15 km — pick a viewing spot along the route or wait at Morioka Hachimangu for the finale. It’s held rain or shine on the 2nd Saturday of June.
