🎎 Shingen-ko Festival信玄公祭り

Takeda Shingen was a powerful daimyo who dominated Kai (present-day Yamanashi Prefecture) during the Sengoku period. To commemorate his legacy, the "Shingen-ko Festival" is held in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, which has deep ties to Takeda Shingen. This festival began in 1947 and has a long history; it was held in the autumn in 2022 and 2023, and starting in 2025, it will return to its original schedule in April. The main event of the festival, "Kōshū Unidan Shutsujin," gathers over a thousand participants dressed in Sengoku warrior armor. It reenacts the fierce battles between Takeda Shingen and the Sengoku daimyo Uesugi Kenshin, who governed the present-day Hokuriku region, particularly the "Battle of Kawanakajima," setting a Guinness World Record for the "largest gathering of warriors." The initial "Victory Prayer Ceremony" of the Shingen-ko Festival is held at the "Takeda Shrine," located at the former site of the Takeda residence. Afterward, participants gather at "Maizuru Castle Park" for the departure ceremony, with the parade route passing in front of Kofu Station, along Heiwa-dori, and through the intersection. Finally, they return to Maizuru Castle Park for the "Return Ceremony." The departure and return ceremonies also feature rituals representing auspicious omens and soul-pacifying ceremonies, which are major highlights. Additionally, during the festival, there are fireworks displays, related activities, and various stalls, creating a lively atmosphere filled with festive music throughout the region.

To commemorate the legacy of Takeda Shingen, a festival is held in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, with a long history. The main event, "Kōshū Undan Shutsujin," features over a thousand participants dressed in Sengoku warrior armor. There are also fireworks displays, various stalls, and related activities. There are plans to hold an event where general participants can join the parade dressed in Sengoku warrior costumes.