As winter comes to an end, the beginning of spring is marked with the blossoming of sakura. On April 1st 2017, Matsue will be full of brave samurai, princesses, and of course the founder of Matsue. Watch as citizens dress up in elaborate costumes and parade around Matsue as they once did long ago. Meet some of the most influential people of Matsue from 400 years ago, as they make an appearance in this annual event.
Matsue “Musha Gyoretsu” Warrior Parade is a re-enactment of Lord Horie Yoshiharu, the founding father of Matsue, and his troops marching through Matsue. Every year, many citizens dress up as brave warriors or princesses in vivid costumes as they parade around the sakura-filled Matsue as they head to their destination, National Treasure Matsue Castle.
JR Matsue Station
Lord Yoshiharu Heading to Battle Ceremony and Mini Warrior Parade
When: 10:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Shirakatatenmangu-Shrine
Warrior Parade Participants Commemorative Photo
When: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Matsue “Musha Gyoretsu” Warrior Parade Starting Ceremony
When: 12:30 p.m. ~
Matsue Ohashi Bridge
Matsue Castle Rifle Squad Performance
When: 1:00 p.m. ~
Armed Forces Performance Exhibition
When: 1:20 p.m. ~
Matsue Kiyomise Shopping District
Amago Samurai Forces Commemorative Photo
When: 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.
Iwakuni Domain Rifle Squad Demonstration
When: 1:20 p.m. ~
Lord Horie Yoshiharu, Wife, and Princess Parade at Kyomise
When: 1:40 p.m. ~
Shimane Prefectural Meeting Hall (West side)
Iwakuni Domain Rifle Squad Demonstration
When: 2 p.m.~
Armed Forces Performance Exhibition
When: 2:20 p.m. ~
Lord Horio Yoshiharu Victory Speech
When: 2:50 p.m. ~
Matsue Castle
Kukedo Taiko Demonstration
When: After the Warrior Parade
Visiting Ceremony to Matsue Shrine/ Lord Yoshiharu’s Return to Matsue Castle
When: After the Warrior Parade
Watch this promotional video about Samurai in Matsue!
Matsue Musha Gyoretsu Official website (JP)