In the coldest season of the year, “Ameichi” –  Candy Festival is held in downtown Matsumoto City.

This festival used to be called as “Shioichi (Salt Market)” after an anecdote of a benevolent samurai lord sending valuable salt to his enemy’s territory, Matsumoto during the war.
Nowadays, instead of selling salt, there are bunch of candy booths as well as Bodhidharma (Daruma) figures booths assisted by young boys and girls.  The candy and Bodhidharma figures sold on that day are regarded as auspicious signs and also small children are sign of pure energy.  Elderly people believe that by purchasing candy and Daruma figures from children they will receive good fortune.

Ameichi “Candy Festival”

Jan 12th Saturday – 13th Sunday
Jan 13th : from 11:30 ~ Parade start (people wear traditional costume and “mikoshi”, portable shirine), as well as a tug of war event will be held in order to forecast this new year’s business.

Please Come!