One of the Three Great Float Festivals of Japan that boasts over 400 years of tradition.
Built by generations of craftsmen, the ornate hikiyama floats are masterpieces known as “moving art museums.”
The “Children’s Kabuki,” that has continued since the Edo period, is not to be missed, as boy actors from five to 12 years old dress in ornate costumes and give passionate performances on the floats that harken back to a different era.
In the fall of 2016, Nagahama Hikiyama Festival, along with 33 other Japanese yama, hoko, yatai, float festivals, were registered as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

Event Dates	April 13–16 every year
Event Details	April 13: Jyusan Nichiban (performances in the evening) April 14: Jicho Kyogen (performances in individual local districts) April 15: Kyogen Hounou (performances to the gods at the shrine) April 16: Goen kyogen (final performances and journey of hikiyamas) *In order to prevent the spread of infections, performances will be held within the district of each float team. *We will also broadcast the event on social media.
Official site	http:/www.nagahama-hikiyama.or.jp/
Location (venue)	Throughout Nagahama City
Address	Nagahama City, Shiga

Region	Kinki
Category	Shrines and temples, Traditional performing arts

Event organizers may change the date and time. Please check the official website.

update: Mar.17.2021