During the reign of the Tokugawa clan in Japan, regional feudal lords were forced to spend alternate years in Edo. There were a number of reasons for this, but the overall reason was to keep any possibility of an uprising or challenge to the centralized power in Edo (modern-day Tokyo). The regional daimyo lords would spend enormous amounts of money to fund their long processions of protectors, entertainers, and administrators.

These processions would use the Tokaido Road connecting Kyoto and Tokyo. The Tokaido Road passes through the heart of Hakone. Hakone has a special place in the song, stories, and lore of the people who traveled through the area. This Japanese festival gives you a chance to see a special part of Japanese history and culture. It is held on Culture Day, a national holiday in Japan. The procession route makes a large loop around the Hakone-Yumoto area. It starts at Yumoto Elementary school, works its way up the mountain, comes down around Hotel Okada, and ends at the Hakone Yumoto Hotel. Please feel free to contact us for more specific information or any questions.