Regarded as one of the best float festivals in the Kanto region, the Hachioji Festival is a multi-day summer event which has several components. As expected, the biggest drawcard is the elaborately carved floats – there are almost 20 of them to check out, and some have a history dating back to the Edo period.
Along with the spectacular floats to appreciate, there will be taiko drumming performances, a cultural exchange with performers from Kaohsiung in Taiwan (one of Hachioji's sister cities), a Hachioji lion dance display (an Intangible Folk Cultural Property), and more. The full lineup of activities can be found on the event website.
Admission to the event itself is free, but bring yen if you plan on making a purchase – there will be over 200 stalls lined up along the Koshu Highway sidewalks selling food, drinks, and other items.
