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UPCOMINGFREE ENTRYMatsuri· Annual
Otsu Matsuri
大津祭
Shiga · Kansai
A grand festival near Kyoto featuring thirteen large floats decorated with rice cakes tossed to the crowd for good luck. Buildings open upper-floor windows to allow people to catch the chimaki rice cakes.
- Dates
- October 10–11Dates follow the event's usual annual pattern — confirm with the organizer before you travel.
- Location
- Shiga · Kansai
- Nearest station
- Otsu Station · 8 min walk
- Crowd level
- Regional attendance
- Entry
- Free entry
- Official site
- otsu-matsuri.jp
Happens every year
What to expect
The Otsu Matsuri is vibrant with the sight of intricately decorated floats parading through the streets. The air is filled with the festive sounds of traditional music and the cheers of the crowd catching chimaki rice cakes.
Best viewing tips
Position yourself near the main street intersections for the best view of the floats. Bring a bag to collect chimaki rice cakes, and consider arriving early to secure a spot near the float procession route.
How to get there
From Kyoto Station · ~28 min by car
Your turn
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