When is the Namahage Sedo Festival 2027?

Friday 12, Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 February 2027, 18:00–20:30 — the 64th edition (Oga City tourism association official guide, checked 2026-09-18).

At Shinzan Shrine in Oga, Akita Prefecture, run by the Namahage Sedo Festival organising committee.

Namahage Sedo Festival 2027: 12–14 Feb, Shinzan Shrine

Demon-masked 'namahage' brandishing torches stampede down a snowy mountainside at Shinzan Shrine in a fierce, firelit Oga winter spectacle.

Combines Shinzan Shrine's ancient 'sedo' fire rite with the Oga namahage folk tradition, a UNESCO-listed New Year ritual.

Getting there: Shuttle bus from JR Oga Station during the festival　Open directions in Google Maps ↗
Booking & entry: Free to attend — details on the official page (button above).
Language: Mostly in Japanese — a translation app on your phone helps.
Good for: culture seekers, groups of friends, night owls

Held on the 2nd Fri-Sun of February; it's bitterly cold and snowy — wear winter boots and arrive before the evening mountain descent.

When is the Namahage Sedo Festival 2027?: Friday 12, Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 February 2027, 18:00–20:30 — the 64th edition (Oga City tourism association official guide, checked 2026-09-18).
Where is it held?: At Shinzan Shrine in Oga, Akita Prefecture, run by the Namahage Sedo Festival organising committee.

Shinzan Shrine, Oga, Akita — 97 Mizukuisawa, Kitaurameyama, Oga, Akita

The Japan-Event editorial desk. We work from primary sources and date every claim that can change.