Hakone Daimyo Procession

Last Updated on December 13, 2024

What to expect at Hakone Daimyo Procession

An annual march held on the national holiday of Culture Day that passes through the town of Hakone.

The event is based on a feudal lord’s procession – an act that took place in the Edo period (1603 – 1868).

A policy known as sankin-kōtai demanded that feudal lords had to reside in Edo (Tokyo) for several months each year and therefore they travelled from their own domains to the capital.

2025 marks Hakone’s 72nd Daimyo Procession, which sees a recreation of the journey a feudal lord would have taken across an area of the Old Tokaido Highway.

After an opening ceremony, the procession passes the hot spring resort of Yumoto and across a section of Japan’s National Route 1 in front of Hakone Yumoto Station.

The procession includes the geishas of Hakone Yumoto, the marching band Hakone 21 (made of local elementary and junior high school students), the Odawara Aiyo High School brass band (from Hakone) and the Hojo Teppo-shu (a musket unit made up of samurai warriors).

When will Hakone Daimyo Procession take place?

The procession will take place on 3rd November 2025 from around 11:00 to around 15:00.

Timings for specific events will be announced closer to the date.

How much does Hakone Daimyo Procession cost?

Hakone Daimyo Procession is free to attend.

How do I get to Hakone Daimyo Procession?

Nearest Station: Hakone Daimyo Procession is best accessed from Hakone Yumoto Station using the Hakone Tozan Line.