Chagu Chagu Umakko: Festival of Workhorse Horses Adorned in Colorful Ceremonial Trappings
Chagu Chagu Umakko
Held the second Saturday of June between Takizawa and Morioka, Iwate, Chagu Chagu Umakko is a traditional festival of thanksgiving for horses that worked the fields all year. Designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.
Highlights
- Magnificent Trappings: Horses adorned with vibrant red, blue, and yellow decorations and bells - Bell Sounds: The distinctive "chagu chagu" ringing of bells on about 100 horses - 15km Route: Walking from Onigoe Sozen Shrine (Takizawa) to Morioka Hachimangu Shrine (Morioka) - Children on Horseback: Local children riding decorated horses during the parade
Schedule
- Around 9am: Depart from Onigoe Sozen Shrine in Takizawa - Around 2pm: Arrive at Morioka Hachimangu Shrine in Morioka
Getting There
- Multiple viewing spots near the finish line around JR Morioka Station - Starting area near Takizawa IC
Tips
Free viewing anywhere along the route. Flash photography is strictly prohibited as horses pass close by. Please watch quietly to avoid startling the horses.
📍 Location & Access
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