Gujo Kanzarashi Festival 2027

Service Description

Step into the river and join us for the fascinating experience of cleaning Koinobori (traditional fabric carp streamers) during the winter festival of Gujo Hachiman. With 450 years of dyeing history and a 15th-generation artisan family, a unique day spent alongside Japanese craftsmen awaits you in the “City of Water” on Tuesday, January 20, 2027. Only 5 places available! Program: Tuesday, January 20, 2027 (We recommend staying overnight in town on January 19 to enjoy the special evening illuminations.) 09:00 — Meet at the bus stop “Gujo Hachiman Castle Town Plaza / 郡上八幡城下町プラザ” 09:15 — Guided tour of the town center 10:00 — Witness the beginning of the Shinto blessing ceremony for the artisans, performed by local priests 11:30 — Lunch at a local restaurant 13:00 — Watch the first Koinobori washing of the day from the riverbank 13:30 — Put on the provided chest waders and meet Mr. Watanabe, a 15th-generation artisan, who will introduce you to his craft and creative process 14:00 — Your turn to clean a gigantic fabric carp in the cool waters of the river! 15:00 — A well-deserved coffee break 16:00 — Visit the artisan’s workshop and shop 16:30 — End of the experience Included French/English-speaking guided tour, lunch, rental of chest waders, and hands-on Koinobori washing experience. Not included Transportation to the meeting point, drinks and/or snacks. Important: Due to technical restrictions related to the available wader sizes, we are unable to accommodate children under 12 years old, guests with a French shoe size above 43, or guests with a waist circumference exceeding 120 cm.