Countries
Shikano Festival
11
Apr
Date
11 Apr (Saturday)
Time
Sat, Apr 11 – Sun, Apr 12
Venue
Shikano Castle Ruins Park, 鹿野 鹿野町
Tottori, Japan
📝 Useful Information
In Shikano (Tottori City), two major and very different events are celebrated throughout the year: the traditional Shikano Festival (a historic Shinto event) and the modern BIRD Theatre Festival.
This is a historic Shinto tradition with over 400 years of history, originating from the Kamei family who ruled Shikano Castle.
An international performing arts festival centered around the Bird Theatre, which is housed in a converted primary school near the castle ruins.
Are you planning to attend the traditional parade in April or the theatre festival in the autumn?
1. Shikano Festival (Traditional)
2. BIRD Theatre Festival (Arts)
Visitor Information
•When: Held every two years on a weekend in mid-April.
•Eve Festival (Yoigasa): A ritual at Shiroyama Shrine where a procession descends the hill, accompanied by approximately 100 lanterns lit along a rope, creating a "river of light".
•Main Festival: Features four decorated floats (yatai), mikoshi (portable shrines), traditional lion dances (Shōjō), and a parade of warriors in armor through the historic castle town.
•When: Annually in September and October (e.g., September 20 – October 12, 2025).
•What to Expect: A diverse program including contemporary theatre, dance, circus, and puppet theatre from Japan and overseas.
•Shikano Time Travel Tour: Immersive plays performed at various locations throughout the castle town using the landscape as a stage.
•Machimise Market: A weekend town market with local food and products held during the festival period.
•Workshops & Parties: Symposiums, family photo sessions, and community parties.
•Location: Both events take place in the Shikano Castle Town area of Tottori City.
•Access: The nearest station is Hamamura Station (JR Sanin Main Line). From there, take a 20-minute "Shikano-yuki" bus. During the BIRD Theatre Festival, free shuttle buses often run from Tottori and Hamamura stations.
Updated at 18 Mar 2026