Kachiya Matsuri

The Kachiya Festival (勝矢祭) is a historic celebration held at Kameido Katori Shrine, a site revered for over a millennium as a sanctuary for “victory.” The festival commemorates the military leader Fujiwara no Hidesato, who prayed here before suppressing the rebellion of Taira no Masakado in 940 CE. In gratitude for his triumph, Hidesato offered a bow and arrow to the shrine, naming it the kachiya (winning arrow). Today, this legendary success is honored every May 5 with a spirited display of samurai tradition and local pride.

The highlight of the matsuri is the samurai parade, which departs from the local area at 1:00 PM. Over 100 participants clad in authentic bushi armor and traditional costumes march through the neighborhood, arriving at the shrine around 3:00 PM. Upon their return, a ceremonial “winning arrow” is dedicated to the deities in a solemn ritual. Because of this connection to victory, the shrine has become a popular pilgrimage site for athletes and students seeking success in their endeavors. The event concludes with festive performances and stalls around the shrine grounds, offering a unique glimpse into Tokyo’s warrior past.

Kameido Katori Shrine is a 10-minute walk from Kameido Station on the JR Sobu Line. The parade route typically passes through the Kameido Katori Kachi-un Shopping Street, which offers an excellent vantage point for photography as the “samurai” navigate the narrow, atmospheric lanes. While the ritual at 3:00 PM is the spiritual climax, the lively afternoon market stalls provide plenty of traditional snacks and charms for those arriving early to secure a viewing spot.