In the spring festival of ‘Little Kyoto of Etchū,’ ornately carved floats and small portable stages, accompanied by lion dances, parade through the town to the sounds of traditional io-uta songs, shamisen, and taiko drums.

The Johana Shinmeigu Spring Festival began in the mid-Edo (1603-1868) period and is held annually on May 4th and 5th. During the festival, six gorgeously decorated hikiyama (festival floats) carrying sacred images parade through the streets along with lion dances and iori-yatai (small stage floats).

On the iori-yatai, performers play traditional instruments such as the shinobue (bamboo flute), taiko (drums), and shamisen while singing "iori-uta,” a refined style of song that traces its origins to Edo hauta (short lyrical songs), creating an elegant atmosphere. Following these are the lacquered hikiyama, adorned with elaborate carvings and gold leaf. These floats are masterpieces of craftsmanship by local artisans and are often referred to as "moving works of art.”

The daytime parade is valiant and dynamic, while in the evening, the hikiyama are illuminated, creating a magical and dreamlike scene. The Johana area is often called the "Little Kyoto of Etchu,” and this elegant, beautiful festival truly lives up to that name.

Inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list under the "Yama, Hoko, Yatai Float Festivals in Japan” and designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.