All Japan Chindon Contest

The All Japan Chindon Contest is a distinctive cultural event held annually in Toyama City, celebrating the traditional Japanese street performance known as chindon. The contest traces its origins to 1955, when Toyama had largely completed its postwar reconstruction following the devastating Toyama Air Raid of 1945. It was established by the City of Toyama and the Toyama Chamber of Commerce and Industry with the aim of bringing brightness and a sense of peace back to the community.

Chindon performances began in the mid-19th century and traditionally feature performers wearing colourful costumes while playing instruments such as drums and trumpets to promote shop openings and sales. Over time, this form of street advertising evolved into a recognised performance art.

Today, the All Japan Chindon Contest is the only nationwide competition of its kind, bringing together professional chindon performers from across Japan to showcase their skills, creativity, and expressive power. The event typically takes place over three days in early April and includes parades, amateur and professional competitions, and a final contest to determine the year’s top performers. The festival concludes with a large-scale parade through downtown Toyama, where professional and amateur groups perform together.