On two occasions, I have had the pleasure of not only attending, but participating in one of the best matsuri (summer festivals) in all of Gunma. As it was explained to me, the basic premise of this festival was to carry a portable shrine around its local neighborhood, in order to bring it close to the older citizens that cannot make it to the actual shrine. Basically there is all lot of heavy lifting and methodical movements, all fueled by copious amounts of alcohol (It is a summer festival after all). Held over three evenings, each night culminates with all of the omikoshi from each neighborhood meeting in the center of town. Each one colliding against the others to demonstrate which group has the most enthusiasm.
- 1 min read
Kusatsu Matsuri
Best in Gunma

By C. Rio
Community writer
Explore nearby
Leave a comment
0 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Kyushu Craftsmanship and Traditions Heritage Tour
Article -
2
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
3
Hokkaido Full Immersion Tour
Hokkaido -
4
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
5
Mt. Fuji Hike 2025: New Safety Rules & Registration Guide
Shizuoka - Sponsored -
6
Capcom Tokyo
Tokyo -
7
Shirakawa-go Named on World's Top Small Towns List
Planning -
8
Honzawa Ranch Observation Deck
Hokkaido -
9
Sado Island Kodo Earth Celebration 2025: Music, Traditions, Taste Tour
Niigata -
10
Kamenoi Hotel Atami
Shizuoka - Sponsored
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
3
Sanja Matsuri
Tokyo -
4
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
May Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
6
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto -
7
Adachi Fireworks
Tokyo -
8
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
9
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
10
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto