All-Japan “Chindon” Traditional Street Performer Contest

An exciting mix of drumming and colorful traditional clothing
Close to 100 people making up 30 groups gather in Toyama each year for Japan’s only “Chindon” contest. Taking place beneath the lovely cherry blossoms on the Matsukawa riverside, the contestants parade along in showy costumes, beating drums and strumming shamisen (3-stringed Japanese guitars). The sound reverberates around the riverside, creating a light-hearted enjoyable atmosphere.
When Three days during early April (2017: Apr. 7 to 9)
Where Toyama Prefectural Civic Centre, Heiwa Street, Grand Plaza and other venues
Access 8-min walk from Toyama Station
20 min by car from Toyama IC

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