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Matsuri Guide

Folk festival, Japanese legends, yōkai parade, and cultural activities • Tokushima (徳島県)

妖怪まつり

Yōkai Matsuri, supernatural creatures festival of Yamashiro

Yōkai Matsuri (妖怪まつり)

Next date On Sunday, November 15, 2026
Status Date confirmed
Period Every year in mid-November, usually the third Sunday
Date type Variable date: Sunday in November confirmed annually
Venue Kamimyo Hoikusho (上名保育所)
Access Former Kamimyo Elementary School, Yamashiro, Miyoshi, Tokushima. About 15 minutes by car from JR Ōboke Station. Limited parking; carpooling recommended.

Name in Japanese and English

  • 妖怪まつり (Yōkai Matsuri)
  • Yōkai Festival, folkloric celebration of the supernatural creatures of Yamashiro

Summary

The Yōkai Matsuri (妖怪まつり) is a folkloric festival dedicated to the supernatural creatures of Japanese tradition, held every autumn in the Yamashiro (山城町, Yamashiro-chō) district, in the city of Miyoshi (三好市, Miyoshi-shi), in the western part of Tokushima Prefecture (徳島県, Tokushima-ken), on the island of Shikoku.

The event traditionally takes place in the courtyard of the former Kamimyo Elementary School (旧上名小学校, Kyū Kamimyo Shōgakkō), within a mountainous area renowned for its many legends of yōkai (妖怪), mysterious beings that hold an important place in Japanese folklore.

The festival gathers residents, families, tradition enthusiasts, and visitors eager to discover a world inhabited by fantastic creatures. The characters appear in the form of costumes, masks, and handcrafted disguises inspired by stories passed down in the villages of Yamashiro.

The region preserves a particularly rich heritage, with about 60 categories of creatures and supernatural phenomena associated with some 190 oral tradition sites. The stories notably mention the mountains, rivers, forests, and steep paths of the area.

Among the most famous characters is the Konaki-jijii (児啼爺), a creature resembling an old man whose cries are said to sound like those of an infant. Its legend is closely linked to the Kamimyo area and is one of the symbols of the local fantastic heritage.

Visitors also encounter the tengu (天狗), a supernatural being associated with mountains, the kappa (河童), an aquatic creature of the rivers, and various apparitions unique to Shikoku traditions.

The main highlight is the Yōkai Gyōretsu (妖怪行列), a procession during which costumed characters parade before the audience. The creatures can be frightening, amusing, or deliberately exaggerated, giving the gathering a unique and family-friendly atmosphere.

The festival also includes the Yōkai Bazā (妖怪バザー), a food and local specialties market. The Yōkai-jiru (妖怪汁), a soup prepared with regional ingredients, is one of the event’s signature dishes.

Musical performances, dance demonstrations, Japanese drum shows, and participatory activities may complement the program. Some editions begin with a purification ceremony performed by yamabushi (山伏), ascetics associated with mountain religious traditions.

The event is organized by the local association Fujikawadani no Kai (藤川谷の会), committed to transmitting legends and preserving the cultural heritage of Yamashiro.

Its origins date back to 2001, when a local initiative dedicated to the Konaki-jijii and the promotion of the Fujikawa valley gave rise to the first celebration. The festival then developed around costumes, parades, and folkloric traditions.

In 2008, the creation of the Shikoku no Hikyō Yamashiro-Ōboke Yōkai Mura (四国の秘境 山城・大歩危妖怪村), the Yamashiro-Ōboke yōkai village, strengthened the cultural recognition of the region. The area also received a heritage distinction from the Sekai Yōkai Kyōkai (世界妖怪協会), the World Yōkai Association.

The festival is usually held in mid-November, often on the third Sunday of the month. It is frequently linked, in the local tourism calendar, to the Yamashiro Tanuki Matsuri (やましろ狸まつり), dedicated to tanuki legends and held in another part of Yamashiro.

In 2026, the 23rd edition was scheduled for Sunday, November 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., but it was canceled due to rain forecasts, with no rescheduled date. Future dates will need to be confirmed by the organizers.

The Yōkai Matsuri thus offers an opportunity to discover an original oral heritage, where supernatural creatures are not only imaginary characters but also witnesses of beliefs, landscapes, and the collective memory of the mountain villages of Shikoku.

Access and landmarks

Location

The festival mainly takes place in the courtyard of the former Kamimyo Elementary School (旧上名小学校, Kyū Kamimyo Shōgakkō), in the Kamimyo (上名) area of Yamashiro-chō. This former school building serves as the main gathering space for the procession, performances, food stalls, and family activities. It is located in a rural and mountainous environment, near the Fujikawa valley and the Ōboke tourist area.

Address

〒779-5452 徳島県三好市山城町上名236-3
236-3 Kamimyo, Yamashiro-chō, Miyoshi, Tokushima Prefecture, Japan.
This address is used in recent announcements by the organizers and the Miyoshi tourism office. Some tourist publications also mention the number 229 Kamimyo for the former school. It is preferable to search directly for the Japanese name of the place in a map application.

Landmark

The main landmark is the former Kamimyo school, whose grounds serve as the central festival area. Other regional landmarks include the Fujikawa valley (藤川谷, Fujikawadani), the Ōboke gorges (大歩危, Ōboke), and the Michi no Eki Ōboke (道の駅大歩危), a tourist rest area housing notably the yōkai museum. The statue of the Konaki-jijii (児啼爺) and sculptures placed along the yōkai road recall the legends of Yamashiro.

Access

The JR Ōboke Station (大歩危駅, Ōboke-eki) on the Dosan Line (土讃線, Dosan-sen) is the main railway access point. From the station, it takes about 15 minutes by car or taxi to reach the former school. By car, the trip from the Ikawa-Ikeda interchange (井川池田IC) on the Tokushima Expressway takes about 40 minutes. Local transportation is limited, and connections should be checked in advance. Parking near the site is restricted; organizers recommend carpooling and ask visitors to follow the instructions of on-site staff.

GPS Coordinates

Main landmark: former Kamimyo Elementary School, Yamashiro-chō, Miyoshi, Tokushima. Search for 旧上名小学校 (Kyū Kamimyo Shōgakkō) or 徳島県三好市山城町上名236-3 in a map application. Access to parking areas and any traffic arrangements should be checked in the announcements for each edition.

Event program

Site preparation. Before the festival opens, organizers set up food areas, stage equipment, and zones reserved for costumed participants. The former school courtyard becomes a meeting place for visitors, residents, and folklore characters.

Festival opening. Festivities usually begin in the morning. Visitors explore the stalls, costumed characters, and various activities offered around the school grounds.

Ritual purification. Some editions open with a Shihōbarai (四方祓い), a purification rite of the four directions, performed by yamabushi (山伏). This ceremony recalls the religious traditions associated with Japanese mountains.

The yamabushi (山伏). These ascetics are linked to Shugendō (修験道), a Japanese spiritual tradition based on mountain asceticism blending various religious influences. Their presence adds a traditional dimension to the opening ceremony.

The arrival of the yōkai. The costumed creatures gradually appear on the school grounds. Some represent figures known throughout Japan, while others are inspired by legends specific to Yamashiro.

The Konaki-jijii (児啼爺). This creature, emblematic of Kamimyo, is associated with the legend of a being that mimics a child's cries before becoming extremely heavy when someone tries to carry it. It holds an important place in the cultural identity of the region.

The tengu (天狗). Often depicted with a long nose, a red face, or bird-like attributes, the tengu is associated with mountains, forests, and spiritual traditions. It regularly appears among characters at folkloric gatherings.

The kappa (河童). This aquatic creature is linked to rivers and waterways. In popular representations, it has a humanoid appearance, a shell, and a water-filled cavity on the top of its head.

Other creatures of Yamashiro. Local stories mention notably the Hitotsume-nyūdō (一ツ目入道), a one-eyed character, and various supernatural manifestations associated with isolated places.

Handcrafted costumes. Some of the disguises are made or maintained by residents and local associations. Masks, headdresses, fabrics, and accessories give a tangible appearance to the creatures of traditional stories.

Children’s participation. Some editions offer costumes adapted for younger participants so they can join the activities and discover folklore characters in a playful way.

Meetings with characters. Before the procession, visitors can observe the costumes, interact with participants, and take photographs when conditions allow.

Stage performances. The program generally includes various musical and cultural performances. Regional singers, dance groups, local artists, and invited guests may take the stage.

Japanese drums. Some editions feature taiko (太鼓) demonstrations, traditional drums whose rhythms enhance the festive atmosphere.

Popular dances and shows. Performances may combine contemporary choreography, humorous animations, and family-oriented presentations.

Hero shows. Demonstrations inspired by popular Japanese heroes may be organized. These are especially aimed at children and complement the folkloric activities.

The Yōkai Bazā (妖怪バザー). The yōkai bazaar gathers food and sales stalls. It is a convivial space where visitors discover Yamashiro specialties.

The Yōkai-jiru (妖怪汁). This traditional festival soup is prepared with local ingredients. Recipes may include seasonal vegetables and, depending on the preparation, wild boar meat.

Udon noodles (うどん). These thick wheat noodles can be served in a hot broth, especially appreciated during the cool November days.

Soba noodles (そば). Made from buckwheat flour, they are also among the specialties offered depending on the vendors.

Roasted sweet potatoes. Yakiimo (焼き芋) are a popular autumn specialty in Japan. Their cooking and aroma contribute to the atmosphere of the stalls.

Other regional specialties. The bazaar may offer preparations based on local agricultural products, snacks, and popular Japanese dishes. The selection varies according to the merchants and volunteers present.

The grand yōkai parade. The Yōkai Gyōretsu (妖怪行列), sometimes called Yōkai Dai Gyōretsu (妖怪大行列), is the main highlight of the event. The costumed creatures gather to parade before the spectators.

Procession route. The parade mainly uses the courtyard and circulation spaces of the former school. Its exact route depends on the organization, number of participants, and weather conditions.

Parade characters. The legendary creatures appear in various forms: monstrous faces, comic masks, large headdresses, animal silhouettes, and costumes inspired by regional beliefs.

Collective participation. The gathering allows residents to stage their own traditions and pass on the names and characteristics of legendary characters to children.

Group photographs. The assembly of yōkai offers a privileged opportunity to photograph several creatures in the same frame. Visitors are invited to respect reserved areas and follow the organizers’ instructions.

Portable shrines. Some past editions have featured mikoshi (神輿), portable shrines decorated on the yōkai theme, made with the participation of residents or local children.

Rice cake throwing. The Mochimaki (餅まき) is a traditional activity during which small rice cakes are thrown to the crowd. This festive event is often associated with the festival’s closing.

Fukumochi-nage (福餅投げ). This distribution of lucky rice cakes is a convivial moment appreciated by visitors. Participants must follow instructions to avoid crowding.

Typical program. The festival usually takes place over one day, with a morning opening, cultural activities, food stalls, and a costumed procession in the latter part of the event.

2026 schedule. The 23rd edition was planned for Sunday, November 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a ritual purification, performances, the procession starting at 1 p.m., and a rice cake throwing. However, it was canceled before taking place due to rain forecasts, with no rescheduling.

Connection with the Yamashiro Tanuki Matsuri. The yōkai festival is often linked to the Yamashiro Tanuki Matsuri (やましろ狸まつり), a separate event dedicated to tanuki legends and held in the Awa-Kawaguchi area.

Tanuki legends. The tanuki (狸), animals to which Japanese folklore sometimes attributes transformation powers, also hold an important place in Shikoku traditions.

Discovering the yōkai village. Visitors can extend their stay by exploring the sites dedicated to Yamashiro legends and the cultural facilities in the Ōboke area.

The yōkai museum. The Yōkai Yashiki (妖怪屋敷), located at Michi no Eki Ōboke, presents representations and explanations about the region’s legendary creatures.

The yōkai road. Sculptures and explanatory panels recount various traditional stories along the Fujikawa valley. They testify to the preservation efforts undertaken by the residents.

Weather conditions. The festival mainly takes place outdoors. Organizers may modify the program or cancel the event if rain or other conditions make its organization difficult.

Festival closing. Activities usually end in the afternoon. Participants gradually disperse after the last collective activities, while volunteers begin cleaning up the site.

Practical tips

Photos

The Yōkai Gyōretsu (妖怪行列) is the best moment to photograph costumes and masks. A versatile lens or zoom allows capturing character details without disturbing their passage. A wide-angle lens is useful for photographing gatherings in the former school courtyard. Handcrafted disguises offer many interesting details, including headdresses, textures, and mask expressions. Prefer a position at the edge of accessible areas and ask permission before taking close-up portraits, especially of children.

Weather

In mid-November, the climate is generally cool in the Miyoshi mountains. Temperatures can be lower than in Shikoku’s coastal cities, especially when the sky is overcast or the wind blows through the valleys. Bring a warm jacket, layered clothing, and comfortable shoes suitable for outdoor terrain. Rain protection is recommended. Since the event is sensitive to weather conditions, check official announcements before traveling, especially after the 2026 edition cancellation.

Transport

The JR Ōboke Station (大歩危駅) is the most convenient railway arrival point. The trip to the former Kamimyo school then requires about 15 minutes by car or taxi. Public transport is infrequent in this mountainous area and does not always provide a direct solution. By car, allow about 40 minutes from the Ikawa-Ikeda interchange. Parking spaces are limited, so carpooling is strongly recommended. Visitors must follow staff instructions and avoid parking on narrow roads or private accesses.

Visitor tips

Arriving early in the morning allows discovering the stalls and observing costumes before the grand parade. The former school grounds are relatively limited, making an early arrival preferable to choose a suitable spot. Families can enjoy performances and meetings with costumed characters, but some deliberately scary creatures may frighten young children. Allow enough time to visit the yōkai museum in Ōboke and explore the Fujikawa valley landscapes. Also check the schedule of the Yamashiro Tanuki Matsuri, often held the day before.

What to bring

Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, rain protection, yen cash for food stalls, and a charged phone. An external battery may be useful for photography and navigation. Visitors arriving by train should arrange their transfer from JR Ōboke Station and their return trip. By car, anticipate narrow roads and limited parking. Before departure, consult communications from the Fujikawadani no Kai association and the Miyoshi tourism office to confirm the event’s status.

History

Ancient traditions of Yamashiro. The mountains, valleys, and rivers of the region have long nurtured stories of mysterious creatures. These legends notably served to convey warnings about natural dangers.

The heritage of yōkai (妖怪). Yamashiro’s oral traditions preserve about 60 categories of creatures and supernatural phenomena spread across nearly 190 locations.

The Konaki-jijii (児啼爺). This creature associated with the Kamimyo area gradually became one of the most well-known symbols of the local folkloric heritage.

The function of legends. Yōkai stories served to explain certain frightening phenomena and to warn against dangerous rivers, cliffs, and isolated paths.

Oral transmission. The oldest residents keep stories passed down through generations, helping preserve the memory of villages sometimes affected by depopulation.

1996: creation of Fujikawadani no Kai. The local association was formed around projects for revitalization and cultural promotion of the Fujikawa valley.

1998: identification of the Konaki-jijii legend. Local research helped establish the link between this creature and the Kamimyo area, increasing interest in Yamashiro’s traditions.

2000: development of the heritage project. Residents continued their research and initiatives aimed at promoting regional legends and combating demographic decline.

2001: installation of the Konaki-jijii statue. A stone sculpture dedicated to the creature was erected with support from residents and contributors from various parts of Japan.

2001: first edition of the festival. The first celebration dedicated to yōkai was organized around local heritage promotion initiatives. It marked the start of the annual festival.

2002: development of costumes. Association members created several supernatural creature costumes and participated in their presentation during the festivities.

2002: evolution of the autumn festival. The local gathering dedicated to autumn colors gradually incorporated the yōkai theme and developed an original folkloric identity.

The yōkai road. Residents installed sculptures, monuments, and explanatory panels to materialize traditional stories along the Fujikawa valley.

The role of schools. Children participate in some creations and activities, promoting the transmission of legends and maintaining a link between generations.

2007: development of cultural events. Initiatives dedicated to Yamashiro’s creatures grew within regional cultural and tourism activities.

2008: creation of the yōkai village. The Shikoku no Hikyō Yamashiro-Ōboke Yōkai Mura (四国の秘境 山城・大歩危妖怪村) brought together several local actors around legend preservation.

2008: heritage recognition. The area received the Kaiisan (怪遺産) distinction, awarded by the Sekai Yōkai Kyōkai (世界妖怪協会) for promoting yōkai culture.

2010: opening of the Yōkai Yashiki. An exhibition space dedicated to supernatural creatures opened at Michi no Eki Ōboke (道の駅大歩危), allowing the public to learn about local legends.

Tourism development of Ōboke. The museum, yōkai road, and folkloric events complement the region’s natural attractions, including the famous Ōboke gorges.

2013: cultural recognition. The Yamashiro-Ōboke yōkai village received the Suntory Chiiki Bunka-shō (サントリー地域文化賞), an award recognizing its commitment to preserving and promoting regional traditions.

Community character of the festival. The event largely relies on the involvement of residents and associations, who make costumes, prepare stalls, and participate in activities.

Gastronomic traditions. The Yōkai-jiru and other local specialties become characteristic elements of the festival, combining folkloric heritage and local products.

Transmission to younger generations. Costumed activities and performances help introduce legends to children and families.

2020: cancellation due to health reasons. The festival was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated risks of gatherings.

2021: further interruption. The health situation again prevented the annual gathering from taking place.

2022: third consecutive cancellation. On September 15, the association announced the cancellation of the November festival due to insufficient visibility on the pandemic’s evolution.

2023: festival returns. The 20th edition was held on Sunday, November 19, at the former Kamimyo school. It marked the festival’s resumption after three years of cancellation.

2023: recognition of natural heritage. The Fujikawa valley received national heritage recognition, enhancing interest in the area and its traditions.

2024: 21st edition. The festival took place on Sunday, November 17, with a creature parade, local food, and folkloric activities.

2025: 22nd edition. On Sunday, November 16, the festival again welcomed costumed characters, performances, stalls, and the traditional rice cake throwing.

2026: 23rd edition scheduled. The festival was announced for Sunday, November 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a yōkai procession, ritual purification, performances, and local food.

November 12, 2026: cancellation. The November 15 edition was canceled due to rain forecasts, with no rescheduling. Tokushima’s tourism calendar also notes this cancellation.

A living heritage. Despite interruptions, residents continue to promote Yamashiro’s yōkai through the festival, exhibitions, monuments, and discovery activities in the area.

Sources & References

Location

Yōkai Matsuri, supernatural creatures festival of Yamashiro

📍 Venue:
Kamimyo Hoikusho (上名保育所)
454 Yamashirocho Kamimyo, Miyoshi, Tokushima 779-5452, Japon

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