Hachioji Festival 2026: Applications Open for Minyo-Nagashi Folk Dance Parade! Individual Dance Workshops Also Planned

Hachioji's festival season is officially kicking off.

What Is the Minyo-Nagashi?

The Minyo-Nagashi is one of the Hachioji Festival's signature highlights, featuring dancers in yukata parading down Koshu Kaido (the old highway).
It is also famous for setting a Guinness World Record in 2016 with 2,130 participants (Hachioji Keizai Shimbun).
Companies, neighborhood groups, schools, and clubs all take part every year, creating a breathtaking spectacle of the whole city dancing as one.
For anyone living in Hachioji, it's an event worth experiencing at least once.

Applications Are Now Open

Applications for groups to join the 2026 Minyo-Nagashi have officially opened.
Announcements from the official account and organizers are appearing on X, and the news is generating buzz among local residents.
For application details, deadlines, and eligibility, please contact the Hachioji Festival official website or the Hachioji Tourism and Convention Association.

• Inquiries: Hachioji Tourism and Convention Association (Creo Hachioji North Building, 9F)

Dance Workshops for Individual Participants

You don't need to join a group to take part in the Minyo-Nagashi.
Dance workshops for individual participants are expected to be held, giving first-timers a chance to learn the basics.
At the workshops, instructors will walk you through the choreography performed during the folk dance parade.
Even if you've never danced before, attending a workshop first will put your mind at ease.

Details on dates, venues, and fees will be available via official announcements on X.
For the latest information, check the Hachioji Festival official website or the official X account (@802maturi).

A Look at the Festival's Other Highlights

Beyond the Minyo-Nagashi, the Hachioji Festival is packed with things to see.
The spectacular float (dashi) procession and mikoshi (portable shrine) parade, considered among the finest in the Kanto region, draw massive crowds every year.
Food stalls lining Koshu Kaido and traditional performing arts staged at various locations make all three days worth attending.
For local residents, it's the summer event of the year.

Let's Dance Together This Hachioji Summer

Joining the Minyo-Nagashi is a wonderful way to enjoy the Hachioji Festival to the fullest.
Whether you participate as part of a group or jump in solo after learning the steps at a workshop, the option is there.
Keep an eye out for application details and workshop schedules as they are announced.
Let's all dance together this Hachioji summer.