Become a Samurai at the Kameoka Mitsuhide Festival

A Chance to Become a Samurai

The Kameoka Mitsuhide Festival, held annually in Kameoka, Kyoto Prefecture, offers a unique opportunity for five foreign visitors to experience the thrill of becoming a samurai. During the festival, participants will don authentic samurai armor, mount a horse, and ride alongside a feudal lord in a majestic procession.

This year marks the 52nd iteration of the festival, which was first launched in 1973 to honor the warlord Akechi Mitsuhide. The festival features a vibrant parade of historical re-enactors portraying Mitsuhide and his entourage, bringing the past to life before the eyes of spectators.

In a move to enhance the festival's international appeal, the Kameoka City Tourism Association is offering this exclusive experience to foreign visitors for a fee of 300,000 yen (approximately $2,000). This opportunity builds upon the success of last year's initiative, where a foreign tourist was invited to play the role of Hidemitsu, Mitsuhide's son-in-law, for the first time.

While the participation fee may seem substantial, the association believes the experience is well worth the investment. Participants will not only have the chance to wear authentic samurai armor but also to ride a horse, immersing themselves in the world of these legendary warriors.

The city of Kameoka holds a special connection to Mitsuhide, as it is home to the Tanba Kameyama Castle, which is believed to have been built by the warlord himself. The festival serves as a vibrant celebration of this historical figure and the rich cultural heritage of the region.