Niihama Taiko Festival

Held every October in Niihama City, the Niihama Taiko Festival is one of Shikoku’s most powerful and celebrated autumn events. Known as one of the region’s “Big Three” festivals, it’s a centuries-old celebration of gratitude for the harvest, expressed through rhythm, strength and community spirit. Over three days, the gold-embroidered drum floats in a parade through the streets, and the sound of taiko drums echoes across the city.

Niihama Taiko Festival

Photo by: PIXTA/ ラベンダー７

The Niihama Taiko Festival dates back over a thousand years. It originated as a Shinto ritual to thank the gods for a bountiful harvest. Today, it remains the pride of Ehime Prefecture and one of Japan’s most striking local festivals.

At the heart of the celebration are 54 taiko-dai (drum floats), also called chosa, which belong to neighborhoods across Niihama. Each one measures around 5.5 meters high, 12 meters long and weighs up to 2.5 tons. The floats feature brilliant gold embroidery, ornate dragons and futon-jime cushions on all sides.

Traditionally built as offerings to the gods, local artisans continue to craft and maintain these floats. Groups of about 150 men (kakifu) transport the floats through the city in tune with taiko rhythms. These proud displays showcase the spirit of Niihama and Ehime Prefecture. 

Festival Highlights

Photo by: PIXTA/wikey

The festival begins before dawn at Ikku Shrine, where the floats head up a 100-step stone staircase for the kakiage (opening event).

The main event of the festival is the kakikurabe, a display of teamwork where groups of men lift the enormous taiko-dai onto their shoulders using kakibo (long wooden poles). This lively event has earned the festival its nickname, the “Men’s Festival” (Otoko Matsuri).

In the past, the festival was also known for a fierce tradition called hachiawase, where floats were rammed together as a sign of bravery. These izari (collisions) have since been banned. Today’s festival focuses on the artistry, strength and community effort of the kakikurabe, rather than competition between teams.

The Four Festival Districts

The Niihama Taiko Festival is celebrated across four districts: Kawahigashi, Kawanishi, Jobu and Ojoin. Each has its own traditions and festival style, creating distinct atmospheres in every area. If you’re visiting for the first time, here are some of the best events to experience during the festival:

• Uchinomiya Shrine Kakiage (Oct 16): Floats from the Sumino area climb a steep 300-meter stone staircase at sunrise.
• Yamane Ground Unified Gathering (Oct 17): The largest event, featuring 20 floats performing together in coordinated displays.
• Hachiman Shrine Kakikurabe (Oct 18): A spacious, spectator-friendly finale where illuminated floats bring the festival to a close.