Shingen-ko Matsuri - Festival of Magnificent Warrior Parade

The Shingen-ko Matsuri, held annually in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, is a historic festival that honors the legacy of Takeda Shingen, the legendary Sengoku period warlord. The main highlight is the spectacular "Koshu Gundan Shujin" (Koshu Army Departure), a grand warrior parade featuring over 1,000 armored samurai and approximately 30 mounted cavalry units led by the famous Twenty-Four Generals of Takeda. This procession was certified as the "World's Largest Samurai Parade" by Guinness World Records in 2012, attracting tourists from both domestic and international destinations. The festival unfolds as a complete Sengoku period epic, beginning with victory prayers at Takeda Shrine, followed by a departure ceremony at Maizuru Castle Park, the grand warrior parade through Kofu city streets, and concluding with a return ceremony. From evening to night, the sight of the "Furinkazan" (Wind, Forest, Fire, Mountain) banners fluttering in the light of ceremonial bonfires is truly magnificent, providing a precious opportunity to experience Japan's historical romance alongside the cherry blossoms blooming throughout Kofu's cityscape.