Experience Tradition, Culture, and Spring Festivities in the Heart of Shonan

Chigasaki’s iconic spring festival, the Ooka Echizen Festival, returns for its milestone 70th edition on April 19 (Sat) and 20 (Sun), 2025! This two-day celebration honors the legacy of Lord Ooka Echizen with dazzling samurai parades, local cultural showcases, traditional performances, and regional product fairs — making it one of the must-visit spring events in the Shonan area.

📅 Event Overview

• Dates: April 19 (Sat) & 20 (Sun), 2025
• Time: From 10:00 AM daily (varies by program)
• Main Venues: Around Chigasaki Station, Jomyoji Temple, Civic Cultural Center, Daiichi Cutter Kiiro Park, and more
• Organizer: 70th Ooka Echizen Festival Executive Committee
• Contact: 0467-58-1111
• Access: No public parking available; use public transportation
• Traffic Restrictions: Road closures around Chigasaki Station on April 20 (Sun) from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM

🎎 Highlight 1: Samurai Parade & Grand Procession

Step back in time with the awe-inspiring Echizen Procession, featuring over 1,000 participants dressed in traditional attire. Led by the dignified figure of Lord Ooka Echizen himself, the parade includes marching bands, festival music, and vibrant performances.

• Date: April 20 (Sun)
• Start: 1:00 PM from Chigasaki Elementary School (South Exit)
• Mikoshi Parade: Starts at 12:30 PM from Itsukushima Shrine
• Note: Light rain permitted / Canceled in severe weather

🛍 Highlight 2: Chigasaki Industry Fair

Discover the local flavor at this lively market showcasing regional specialties, crafts, and industrial goods — with family-friendly booths perfect for all ages.

• Date: April 19 (Sat) & 20 (Sun), 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
• Venue: Daiichi Cutter Kiiro Park (Central Park)

🏯 Highlight 3: Temple Festival at Jomyoji

Celebrate Ooka Echizen’s legacy at historic Jomyoji Temple, filled with stage performances and cultural activities.

• Date: April 19 (Sat), 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
• Venue: Jomyoji Temple (Tsutsumi, Chigasaki)
• Program Highlights:
  • Stage shows: brass band, comedy, games
  • Free tasting of “Ooka Hot Pot”
  • Outdoor tea ceremony (12:00 PM)
  • Children’s daimyo procession (from 2:20 PM)
  • Memorial service for Ooka Echizen (3:00 PM)

🎭 Highlight 4: Cultural Performances at Chigasaki Civic Hall

Enjoy a lineup of traditional and modern performances at the conveniently located Civic Cultural Center near Chigasaki Station (North Exit).

Ooka Sabaki 2025 (Theatrical Play)

• April 20 (Sun) at 11:00 AM & 3:00 PM (Free admission)

Ikebana Exhibit & Workshop

• April 19 & 20 from 10:00 AM (First 10 guests/day, ¥500)

CHIGASAKI HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC FESTIVAL

• April 19 (Sat), 4:30 PM (Free admission)

Nihon Buyo Dance Showcase

• April 20 (Sun), 12:30 PM (Free admission)

🏮 Highlight 5: Station Area Concerts & Local Markets

Pedestrian Deck Concert

• April 19 (Sat), 10:00 AM @ Chigasaki Station North Exit

Street Markets & Bonsai Fair

• April 19–20, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (Bonsai from 10:00 AM) in front of the Chamber of Commerce

🚉 Important Notes & Access Info

• No parking for visitors – please use public transport.
• Traffic restrictions apply near Chigasaki Station on April 20 (12:30–15:00).
• Check the official Ooka Echizen Festival website for updates and route maps.

✨ Editor’s Pick

With its perfect blend of history, entertainment, and gourmet experiences, the Ooka Echizen Festival is a fantastic spring outing for families, couples, and culture lovers alike. Celebrating its 70th anniversary, the 2025 edition promises a more vibrant and immersive experience than ever before. Come feel the spirit of Edo and enjoy the spring festivities in the charming seaside town of Chigasaki!

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▼Click here for the Japanese version of this article
>>【2025年4月19・20日開催】第70回 大岡越前祭｜茅ヶ崎で時代行列＆春の祭典を満喫！