Who Are The Oyama Bayashi Perfomers?

The Kakunodate Festival is one of Japan’s most unique and unusual festivals.

Giant 4-ton wooden wagon-like Hiki-yama are pulled through the streets of Kakunodate.
When coming up against another Hiki-yama, negotiations start for who has the right-of-way. If negotiations fail, a battle where the Hiki-yama smash against each other commences. These clashes occur randomly throughout the town and may last until the early morning hours.
On the Hiki-yama are the Oyama Bayashi, musicians and dancers who perform as they travel throughout Kakunodate.

Make sure to come visit every year from September 7th to 9th to experience the excitement firsthand!