Owara Kaze No Bon Festival
Near: Toyama (Event is Free)
Event Date(s):
Aug. 31, 2025 • Sep. 1, 2025 • Sep. 2, 2025
Dates are subject to change without notice. Check with the official organizers before making travel arrangements.
Considered as one of (and truly is) the most beautiful Obon dances, Owara Kaze No Bon Festival is held near Toyama city on the western side of Japan. The festival used to be just a little folk festival for local inhabitants but word got around about how magnificent the festival is and in recent years has become quite popular. Originally the festival started ages ago to appease the wind and pray for a bountiful crop (the "wind" being Typhoons). The whole town basically stops working for a few days while the festival is prepared for and performed. This Obon dance and music is very different from other Obon dances in that the music and dance itself is very subtle and graceful. The festival is held on the streets and on stages (along with a "main" stage) throughout the town.
The western area of Japan is one not so visited by foreigners. However, there are some exceptional places to visit on that side of Japan and the sushi (especially Buri) is some of the best you can get in Japan. If your schedule coincides to be on the western side of Japan during this time, don't miss this festival!
Getting there from Toyama:
1.) Take the Takayama Honsen Line to Ecchu Yatsuo Station (about 25 min.)
2.) The "Main Stage", see map below, is a little far from the station (a good 40 min. walk) but you can catch a taxi or look lost and a local may smile and give you a ride:)
800 Yatsuomachi Kagamimachi
Toyama, Toyama 939-2341 Japan
Website: Owara Kaze No Bon Festival Homepage