Ecchu Yatsuo is a charming, historic town in Toyama, renowned for its beautifully preserved traditional streets and a unique cultural heritage. It's most famous for the "Owara Kaze no Bon" festival, a melancholic and elegant dance festival held annually in early September.
The Silk Village
Ecchu Yatsuo, located in Toyama Prefecture, flourished during the Edo period as a key trading hub and, significantly, as a "Silk Capital" (Sanshi-to 蚕都) of Echhū Province. From the Genroku era (1688-1704) onwards, sericulture steadily expanded, with the Toyama domain actively promoting it. Pioneers like Yamaya Zen'emon and Konya Jihei were instrumental in the early manufacturing of silkworm eggs (蚕種).
By the Bunka era (1804-1818), Yatsuo's silkworm eggs had achieved national distribution, accounting for as much as one-fourth of the total national production, reaching over 100,000 sheets, and bringing immense wealth to the town, to the extent that it was said the entire town's livelihood could be sustained by the profits from silkworm eggs. This prosperity, deeply rooted in the raw silk and silkworm egg trade, directly contributed to the elaborate craftsmanship seen in the "Hikiyama" festival floats and the vibrant culture of the town, including the "Owara Kaze no Bon" festival.
The town's commitment to the industry was further solidified with the establishment of the Yatsuo Town Sericulture School in 1901, though it later merged with other agricultural schools. Even today, the Kaikonomiya (蚕養宮), a shrine dedicated to silkworms established in 1781, stands as a testament to the deep historical connection between Ecchu Yatsuo and its once-thriving silk industry.
Owara-no-Kaze Bon Odori Dance Festival
The Owara Kaze no Bon (おわら風の盆) is an evocative and ancient dance festival, held annually from September 1st to 3rd in Ecchu Yatsuo, Toyama Prefecture, originating over 300 years ago as a celebration of the town's establishment and, critically, as a prayer to the wind gods for a successful harvest, especially against late-season typhoons. This unique festival is characterized by its melancholic music, performed on kokyū and shamisen, accompanying elegant, flowing dances executed by performers in matching yukata or happi and distinctive low-brimmed straw hats that obscure their faces, creating an ethereal atmosphere as they gracefully move through the lantern-lit historic streets.
There are three main dance styles: the "Harvest Festival Dance," "Male Dance," and "Female Dance." The Owara Kaze no Bon attracts vast crowds eager to witness the mesmerizing "Machi-nagashi" street processions and "Wa-Odori" circle dances, with each of Yatsuo's 11 historic districts showcasing its own unique dance and costume variations.
Interesting Sites Around the Town
Beyond the captivating Owara Kaze no Bon festival and its historical silk industry, Ecchu Yatsuo offers a rich array of cultural and historical sites. The Ecchu Yatsuo Hikiyama Festival, held every May 3rd, features magnificent two-story wooden floats, or hikiyama, which are masterworks of traditional craftsmanship, adorned with intricate carvings and lacquerware, and are a testament to the town's Edo-period merchant wealth; you can admire these year-round at the Hikiyama Exhibition Hall. Furthermore, the town boasts a distinguished heritage of Yatsuo Washi, or traditional Japanese paper, known for its exceptional durability and historical importance in the local economy, particularly for its use in Toyama's medicine trade, with local shops often offering exquisite washi products.
Visiting Ecchu Yatsuo
It can be a bit difficult to get to the main area of Ecchu Yatsuo. It requires a train from Toyama Station to Ecchu Yatsuo Station and then a community bus. If you want help getting here or want to learn more about the area with a guide, join us for a tour of Toyama City and Ecchu Yatsuo. See the Ikedaya Medicine Shop, Glass Museum and nice views of the Tateyama Mountains before heading the Ecchu Yatsuo and enjoy the Hikiyama Exhibition Hall and the feel of the town. Check it out below.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Ecchu Yatsuo most famous for?
Ecchu Yatsuo is most famous for the Owara Kaze no Bon (おわら風の盆), an enchanting traditional dance festival held annually from September 1st to 3rd. It's also renowned for its beautiful historic streetscapes and the elaborate Hikiyama (festival floats) from its spring festival. Historically, it was a major center for silk production and high-quality washi (Japanese paper).
When is the best time to visit Ecchu Yatsuo?
For an immersive festival experience, visit Ecchu Yatsuo during the Owara Kaze no Bon (September 1st-3rd) or the Hikiyama Festival (May 3rd), being prepared for crowds and booking accommodations well in advance. Alternatively, for pleasant weather and fewer crowds to explore the historic streets and museums, late April to early May or late October to early November are ideal.
Can I buy traditional crafts or souvenirs in Ecchu Yatsuo?
Yatsuo Washi: Handmade Japanese paper products.
Local Sake: Yatsuo has a tradition of sake brewing.
Traditional Sweets: Unique local confections.
Owara-no-Kaze Bon Odori related items: Small musical instruments, themed souvenirs, or miniature yukata.
How do I get to Ecchu Yatsuo?
From major cities like Tokyo or Kyoto, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Toyama Station. From Toyama Station, Ecchu Yatsuo is accessible by bus and train.
Take a local train to Ecchu-Yatsuo Station (approx. 20-25 minutes). The festival area is a 15-20 minute walk from the station, or you can take a local bus or taxi.
During the Owara Kaze no Bon, special direct buses usually operate from Toyama Station.
How long should I plan to be in Ecchu Yatsuo for?
If you are gonna go into all the traditional shops and museums, probably 2 to 3 hours.
