Matsushiro Sanada Jumangoku Festival

Every autumn, the quiet streets of Matsushiro Town in Nagano City transform into a vivid stage of history during the Matsushiro Sanada Jumangoku Festival. This grand event celebrates the legacy of the Sanada clan, who ruled the Matsushiro Domain for ten generations over a span of more than 250 years. The festival is not just a spectacle – it is a heartfelt tribute to over two centuries of wise and stable governance under the Sanada family. The name "Jumangoku" refers to the clan's domain value of 100,000 koku, a traditional unit measuring rice production that symbolised wealth and power in feudal Japan.

The main attraction is the Sanada Jumangoku Gyōretsu Parade, a lively and elaborate procession that brings the Sengoku (Warring States) period to life. Over 250 participants, including locals and volunteers, dress as samurai, princesses, and historical figures. The procession begins at Matsushiro Castle and winds through the town, accompanied by horses, traditional drums, and spirited shouts of valour.

Notably, the parade is led by the current head of the Sanada family, 14th-generation Yukitoshi Sanada, whose presence adds historical authenticity and a living connection to the clan’s enduring legacy.

Beyond the parade, the festival features historical reenactments, cultural performances, and a spectacular fireworks display. It is a deeply community-driven event, with residents of all ages taking part in preserving and celebrating the town’s proud samurai heritage.