The rich cultural heritage and local atmosphere of Wakayama is best exemplified in its vibrant festivals and yearly events. The kindred spirits of our citizens are what makes these events the heart of our community. Ranging from traditional festivals with thousands of years of history to modern events celebrating life and vigor, Wakayama City's festivals and events have something for everyone.

Event Time Place
First shrine/temple visit of the New Year 1/1 to 1/3 Kimiidera, Nichizengu, Idakiso Shrine, Kamoyama Shrine
Kakizome (New Year's calligraphy/painting) 1/2 Wakaura Tenmangu
Hatsu-Tenjin 1/25 Wakaura Tenmangu
Toka-ebisu 1/9 - 1/11 Local Shrines
Uzue Festival 1/15 Idakiso Shrine
Hatsu-Kannon 1/18 Kimiidera
Setsubun 2/3 - 2/4 Kimiidera
Needle Memorial Service 2/8 Awashima Shrine
Hina-nagashi Doll's Festival 3/3 Awashima Shrine
Cherry Blossom Festival Late March - Early April Wakayama Castle, Kimiidera, Wakanoura
Shellfishing & Tidepooling 4/1 - 9/30 Kataonami, Kada
Commerce Festival 2nd Sat. & Sun. of May Wakayama City
Children Friend's Festival 5/5 Wakayama City Parks
Kada Awashima Shobuen Iris & Camellia Garden Jan. - April May - June Camellia & Iris in bloom
Beach Season 7/1 - 8/31 Hamanomiya, Kada, Isonoura
Harbor Festival 7/20 Wakayama Harbor
Takigino, outdoor Noh performance 7/26 Nichizengu
Wa-kuguri Prayer for Good Health 7/30 Idakiso Shrine
Thousand-day prayer visit 8/9 Kimiidera
Danshichi Traditional Dance Mid-Aug. Okazaki District
Sweet Sake Festival 10/3 Awashima Shrine
Shishimai Traditional Lion's Dance Mid-Oct. Kinomoto Hachimangu
Chrysanthemum Exhibit Mid-Nov. Wakayama Castle Park

In addition to these yearly festivals, there are special events every year. For more information about Wakayama City's Festivals and Events, contact the Wakayama City Tourism Promotion Division of City Hall: (073)435-1234.