About the event
Rather than a performance on one stage, Kawagoe Matsuri unfolds across a town. Follow the decorated floats through the streets and listen for the festival ensembles that give each encounter its character.
- Float craftsmanship: look at the figures and decoration above street level.
- Musical encounters: hikkawase brings the ensembles on meeting floats face to face.
- After dark: lanterns change the appearance of the floats and streets.
The official downloadable programme includes an English edition. Choose a manageable viewing area and leave time for the journey back.
Plan your visit
- Hours & closure days
- Daytime and evening programmes on both days. Float movements vary by location; consult the 2026 timetable. The 10:00–22:00 road closure is not a performance schedule.
- Admission
- Street viewing has no general admission gate. Food, shopping and any reserved viewing services are separate; check their individual terms.
- Tickets & booking
- Use the official map and live float-location service for street viewing. Any reserved viewing area or special experience has its own booking conditions.
Location & access
Central Kawagoe festival streets
川越まつり 市街地会場
Central Kawagoe, Saitama — see the official festival map
Choosing your destination
Use public transport and the organiser’s 2026 map to choose an arrival point. Central roads close to vehicles from 10:00 to 22:00 on both days; bus routes may change.
Area map. Use the organiser’s programme for the exact venue or entrance.