Kanazawa in June 2025: Highlights, Events & Festivals
Kanazawa is known as a city where old and beautiful townscapes remain. Kanazawa in June has an average temperature of about 23°C, and it's the rainy season with abundant rain. In the city, hydrangeas bloom, and fireflies, which emit beautiful light, can also be seen.
Kanazawa has been governed by the famous samurai family, the Maeda family, since the 16th century. Since that era, economy and traditional crafts have greatly developed, creating a rich cultural history.
In such June Kanazawa, a major event called "Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival" is held, which is the most exciting time in the city all year.
This time, we have compiled highlights and basic information about events held in Kanazawa in June, including the Hyakumangoku Festival. If you are going to see the Hyakumangoku Festival or planning to visit Kanazawa for tourism in June, please refer to this.
Kanazawa's biggest June Event June 2025 is the most exciting annual event, "Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival"
In Kanazawa, the "Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival" is held every June. The Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival is the most exciting and biggest event in Kanazawa throughout the year.
A magnificent parade called "Hyakumangoku Procession" takes place, and numerous events are held for three days at various spots around the Kanazawa Station area.
I will explain each point of this big event, which includes parades where you can feel over 400 years of history and attracts as many as 400,000 spectators.
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- Date: June 6-8, 2025
- Access: Get off at JR "Kanazawa" Station East Exit → Walk 2 minutes → Kanazawa Station East Plaza (Hyakumangoku Procession starting point)
- Admission: Free to watch
- Website: https://100mangoku.net/
Must-see spectacular main event "Hyakumangoku Procession"
The "Hyakumangoku Procession" is the main event of the Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival. People dressed in historical ethnic costumes parade through the streets of Kanazawa city for about 4 hours.
Among the many highlights of the parade, be sure to pay attention to the person dressed as the historical hero warrior Maeda Toshiie. The Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival celebrates Maeda Toshiie's entry into Kanazawa Castle in the 16th century and the significant development of this area since then.
At the finale of the parade at Kanazawa Castle Park, the 16th-century castle entry scene is recreated with many samurai surrounding the main figure. In recent years, popular Japanese actors have played Maeda Toshiie, authentically performing this historical scene. Don't miss watching this most exciting finale moment.
Graceful dance parade through the city "Hyakumangoku Dance Parade"
The "Hyakumangoku Dance Parade" is a dance parade held during the evening of the Hyakumangoku Festival. About 100 teams and 10,000 participants from companies and schools showcase their dancing while parading on the roads for about 2 hours.
Participants are characterized by being beautifully dressed in Yukata, traditional Japanese clothing. While traditional, pay attention to each team's unique expression through their Yukata.
When I attended, the parade with many people dancing together was graceful yet filled with energy. The enthusiastic cheers from spectators to dancers created a lively atmosphere.
In some sections, spectators can join in the dancing spontaneously. If you feel like participating, try dancing by imitating those around you.
Various costumed processions and performer groups
The Hyakumangoku Festival parade recreates the magnificent samurai procession of the Maeda family that ruled Kanazawa from the 16th to 19th centuries. People wear various types of traditional costumes, including samurai armor from that period. Also, each group performs unique cultural and historical performances of Kanazawa.
One particularly unique performance is the traditional performing art called Shishimai procession. Shishimai is a traditional Japanese art where performers dress as lions and dance while performing. Kanazawa's Shishimai is distinctive, featuring a story where performers playing samurai defeat the lion with swords.
The acrobatic performances by people wearing traditional carpenter clothing are also spectacular and popular. Thoroughly enjoy the numerous performances - you won't get bored watching them all day.
Must-See Kanazawa Events for June 2025 Related to the Hyakumangoku Festival
Opening Night Festival: Kaga Yuzen Lantern Floating
The day before the main Kanazawa Event June 2025 - the Hyakumangoku Procession - an opening night festival is held. In this mystical Kanazawa Event June 2025, approximately 600 lanterns are floated down Kanazawa's Asano River in traditional Kaga Yuzen style, creating a magical spectacle with their glimmering lights once darkness falls.
The Kaga Yuzen Lantern Floating showcases Kanazawa's renowned traditional crafts and cultural heritage. Yuzen is a traditional Japanese dyeing technique used for creating beautiful kimono patterns and designs, and Kanazawa's Yuzen craftsmanship is particularly famous, developed using the city's abundant river waters.
During this Kanazawa Event June 2025, lanterns are set afloat on the beautiful Asano River to honor ancestors and pray for the continued prosperity of Kanazawa's proud Yuzen techniques. The event takes place from upstream of Tenjin Bridge to the Asano Ohashi area near Higashi Chaya District. Consider experiencing this fantastical display of cultural beauty on the eve of the major Kanazawa Event June 2025.
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Date: June 6, 2025, 19:00-20:00
Access: From Kanazawa Station, take bus (Route 11 Kinmachi B) → Get off at "Hashiba-machi 1, 2, 5" → 2-minute walk to Asano River near Asano Ohashi Bridge (approximately 11 minutes total)
Admission: Free
Website: https://100mangoku.net/know_sai.html#a3
Kanazawa Castle & Kenrokuen Four Seasons Story ~Early Summer Edition~
During the Kanazawa Event June 2025 period, Kanazawa Castle Park and Kenrokuen Garden offer exclusive nighttime illumination. In Kanazawa Castle Park, historic samurai-era structures including Ishikawa Gate and Kahoku Gate are beautifully lit up. Meanwhile, Kenrokuen Garden, with its magnificent Japanese landscapes, showcases illuminated early summer flowers like kakitsubata (Japanese iris).
This Kanazawa Event June 2025 allows visitors to enjoy enchanting nighttime views at Kanazawa's most iconic landmarks. Kanazawa Castle Park features a restoration of the castle ruled by the Maeda samurai clan until the 19th century, while Kenrokuen, considered one of Japan's three greatest gardens, represents the city's premier attractions.
While normally requiring an admission fee, entry to both locations is complimentary during the illumination period of this Kanazawa Event June 2025. Take this opportunity to stroll through Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen in the evening breeze, enjoying their spectacular nighttime beauty.
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- Date: June 7, 2025
- Access:
To Kanazawa Castle Park: Approximately 5-minute walk from "Kenrokuen-shita/Kanazawa Castle" bus stop via Kanazawa Castle Loop Bus, Hokuriku Railway buses, or JR West buses
To Kenrokuen Garden: Approximately 3-minute walk from "Kenrokuen-shita" bus stop via Kanazawa Flat Bus Zaimoku Route
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.hot-ishikawa.jp/event/detail_21201.html
Experience Kanazawa Event June 2025 Culture with Local Guides!
For those interested in Kanazawa's rich history and unique culture, we recommend joining guided tours led by local experts. These specialized tours combine perfectly with the Kanazawa Event June 2025 experience.
The tour includes visits to Omicho Market (a famous food market), Kanazawa Castle Park, Kenrokuen Garden, and the historic Higashi Chaya District with its preserved traditional architecture. You'll efficiently explore essential cultural sites while learning about Kanazawa's distinct heritage.
In the celebrated Kenrokuen Garden, enjoy traditional Kanazawa delicacies like Jibuni (duck stew) and Japanese sweets while admiring the elegant landscape and historic fountains. The historic Higashi Chaya District allows you to shop for crafts and confections while strolling through streets lined with former geisha houses.
For first-time visitors wanting to experience fundamental sightseeing in Kanazawa, this tour provides an excellent introduction to the city's attractions.
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- Meeting point: FamilyMart + Comare Drug Kanazawa Musashi Store, 35-1 Shimotsutsumi-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa
- Tour area: Kanazawa Station vicinity
- Start time: 10:00 AM
If You're Visiting Kanazawa in June 2025, Experience Japan's Summer Tradition: Firefly Viewing
Fireflies are insects that live near rivers and waterside areas in Japan. During their glowing flights from early to mid-summer, they create beautiful scenes that have been cherished as summer traditions. They have been featured in waka poetry and various Japanese art forms.
From May to July, when fireflies appear, firefly viewing events take place throughout Japan in areas with clean water. Here are Kanazawa's spots where you can see this summer tradition:
Kanazawa Castle & Kenrokuen Four Seasons Story (Firefly Viewing Event)
At Kanazawa's symbolic spots—Kanazawa Castle Park and Kenrokuen—firefly viewing events are held in June 2025. These adjacent areas are rich in nature, offering multiple spots for firefly viewing.
Kenrokuen is a treasure-like spot where you can enjoy the poetic scenery of beautiful Japanese gardens at night combined with fireflies. You can observe Heike fireflies and Genji fireflies near Tatsumi Waterway in Kenrokuen.
When I visited, the sight of pale green lights slowly dancing through the beautiful Japanese garden felt like a dream.
During the event period, the gardens open at night (usually closed) and entrance is free. Firefly sightings depend on weather—they appear best on cloudy, windless days.
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- Date: June 27-28, July 4-5, 2025 19:30-21:10 (closes 21:30)
- Access: Castle Town Kanazawa Sightseeing Bus / Hokuriku Railway Bus / West Japan JR Bus "Kenrokuen-shita/Kanazawa Castle" stop → 5-minute walk to Kanazawa Castle Park
Kanazawa Flat Bus Zaimoku Route "Kenrokuen-shita" stop → 3-minute walk to Kenrokuen
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Website: https://www.kanazawa-kankoukyoukai.or.jp/event/detail_30152.html
Hakuchorō Firefly Viewing Evening
Sotobori Park, part of Kanazawa Castle Park, provides another beautiful environment for fireflies. Hakuchorō, the walking path starting from Ishikawa Gate, features clean flowing water. Cherry trees and hydrangeas line the path, attracting fireflies in early summer.
During the event at Kanazawa Event June 2025, park lights are dimmed, creating perfect conditions for firefly viewing. Take time to observe fireflies dancing through the rich nature around Hakuchorō.
With advance registration, you can participate in firefly lectures and readings of firefly-themed novels at Hotel Sanraku.
Fireflies only live in pristine water environments, making sightings precious even in Japan. Enjoy these ephemeral, beautiful creatures while experiencing Kanazawa's nature.
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- Date: May 30-June 1, June 8-10
- Access: Hokuriku Railway Bus / West Japan JR Bus "Kenrokuen-shita/Kanazawa Castle" stop → 3-minute walk to Sotobori Park, Hakuchorō area
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Website: https://www4.city.kanazawa.lg.jp/soshikikarasagasu/kankyoseisakuka/gyomuannai/shizenhogo/naturalenvironmentaleducation/5483.html
5 Must-See Events When Visiting Kanazawa June 2025
Ice House Opening (Himuro Hiraki)
Himuro Opening is a ceremony related to ice and snow, traditional Kanazawa specialties. With heavy snowfall, Kanazawa delivered precious ice to Tokyo's Shogun from the 17th-19th centuries. At Yuwaku Onsen hot springs, they recreate this historical dedication ceremony each June.
The appeal lies in witnessing historical ceremonies unique to Kanazawa's nature and culture. Buddhist rituals occur at the old storage house (Himuro Hut), where ice is first cut and delivered to temples, faithfully recreating ancient ceremonies.
Himuro manju, traditional sweets eaten to pray for successful delivery, are also available. When visiting Yuwaku Onsen, experience this unique glimpse into Kanazawa's history.
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- Date: June 30, 2025 10:00-
- Access: JR Hokuriku Line "Kanazawa" Station West Exit → 50-minute bus ride to Yuwaku Onsen → 7-minute walk to Gyokusen Lakeside Himuro Hut
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Website: https://yuwaku.gr.jp/event/13741/
Yuzen Washing Experience
This event lets visitors experience the traditional Kaga Yuzen textile dyeing process, a Kanazawa specialty. Participants wash away starch and excess dye from fabrics in Asano River, experiencing traditional techniques.
This rare chance allows hands-on exploration of traditional crafts that significantly influenced Japanese kimono culture. Kaga Yuzen, known as "water art," relies on river washing as a crucial step.
Watching fabrics flow and finish in the river reveals why Kaga Yuzen earned its "water art" nickname.
Those interested in kimono culture should check the schedule for this Kanazawa Event June 2025 experience.
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- Date: June 2, 2024 (2025 dates TBA)
- Access: From "Kanazawa" Station → Bus (Line 11 Kinmachi B) → "Hashibacho 1,2,5" stop → 5-minute walk to Asano River, Ume Bridge area (approximately 15 minutes total)
- Entrance Fee: TBA
- Website: https://www.kagayuzen.or.jp/
1 Million Candle Night at Kanazawa Citizens' Art Village
The 1 Million Candle Night at Kanazawa Citizens' Art Village is a memorable candle event held in conjunction with the Ministry of the Environment's Light Down Campaign. As the city lights down for environmental awareness, countless candles illuminate the venue at Kanazawa Citizens' Art Village.
This enchanting event features various candle art exhibitions that truly capture the spirit of Kanazawa Event June 2025. When I visited last year, I arrived while it was still bright to appreciate the colorful candles arranged as unique installations. As darkness fell, the flickering flames in the natural setting created a breathtaking scene, evoking feelings of wonder and warming comfort.
Stone lanterns and glass bottle candles added to the magical atmosphere. Come relax and enjoy the beautiful candle art at Kanazawa Citizens' Art Village, a perfect representation of what makes Kanazawa Event June 2025 so special.
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- Date: Around June 21 annually (specific 2025 date to be announced)
- Access: From JR Kanazawa Station, take bus to "Kamiyasuhara" → Get off at "Tomimoto-cho" bus stop → 10-minute walk to Kanazawa Citizens' Art Village
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.geimura.com/art/candlenight2024/
Kaga Million Rocks Bon Shogatsu
Kaga Million Rocks Bon Shogatsu at Kanazawa Castle Park offers visitors an authentic experience of Kanazawa's rich history. This event, a cornerstone of Kanazawa Event June 2025, recreates the grand early summer celebrations that flourished from the 17th to 19th centuries. Numerous stalls offer food, games, and engaging workshops.
This event's highlight is how it makes Kanazawa's cultural heritage accessible to all ages. Set within beautiful historic architecture and natural surroundings, children can enjoy games and performances while adults appreciate the deeper cultural significance – a true embodiment of Kanazawa Event June 2025's community spirit.
During my visit, I was charmed by traditional drumming performances by children. The venue also features exquisite seafood delicacies from Noto, Kanazawa's coastal region, alongside other local specialties. As this event coincides with the Hyakumangoku Festival, visitors planning to attend either should consider experiencing both Kanazawa events.
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- Date: June 7-8, 2025 (June 7: 10:00-18:00, June 8: 10:00-16:00)
- Access: From "Kenrokuen-shita/Kanazawa Castle" bus stop (Castle Town Kanazawa Loop Bus, Hokutetsu Railway Bus, West Japan Railway Bus) → About 5-minute walk
From "Kenrokuen-shita" bus stop (Kanazawa Flat Bus timber route) → About 5-minute walk to Kanazawa Castle Park
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://100mangoku.net/know_sai.html
Eianji Temple Fire Festival
The Eianji Temple Fire Festival stands as a significant traditional event celebrating Kanazawa Event June 2025. This ceremony honors Aizen Myoo, a revered Buddhist deity, through sacred fire rituals. Visitors witness the unique fusion of Shugendo – combining native Japanese mountain worship with Buddhism – creating an unforgettable spiritual experience.
The festival's centerpiece is the fire-walking ceremony where participants can join monks in walking across sacred ashes. During the ritual, gomafuda (prayer tablets) are burned to grant wishes and prayers. Following the clerics' path, willing participants traverse the remaining embers barefoot.
This ancient Buddhist and Shugendo practice represents spiritual training and wish fulfillment. The ceremony is conducted safely with minimal risk of burns. Those interested in participating should carefully follow the organizers' instructions for this profound Kanazawa Event June 2025 experience.
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- Date: June 4, 2025
- Access: Eianji Temple, Aizen Myoo Statue Front Plaza
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://eianji.p-kit.com/page454993.html
It's highly recommended to ask locals for restaurant suggestions when visiting Kanazawa!
No Kanazawa Event June 2025 would be complete without experiencing the city's exceptional cuisine. Join our guided Night Food Tour to discover local restaurants recommended by Kanazawa natives.
This tour visits three handpicked restaurants and bars for a full dinner experience, including five drinks. Begin at a traditional restaurant serving local specialties – fresh sashimi, oden hotpot, and perfectly paired sake from Kanazawa's coastal waters.
Between venues, stroll through authentic samurai district streets where historic residences line ancient pathways. The illuminated traditional architecture creates a timeless atmosphere, making you feel transported to another era. This tour perfectly complements your Kanazawa Event June 2025 experience.
- Meeting point: Kanazawa Lamboda Building, 2-4-30 Korinbo, Kanazawa, Ishikawa
- Tour area: Kanazawa Station vicinity
- Start time: 18:00
