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Nebuta, Kanto, and Tanabata – Discover the Three Great Festivals of Tohoku (August)

Nebuta, Kanto, and Tanabata – Discover the Three Great Festivals of Tohoku (August)

Last updated: 12 January 2017

Tohoku, the northeastern region of Japan, is known for its vibrant cultural heritage and rich traditions. Among the many colorful festivals celebrated in this region, three stand out as the most captivating and enchanting: Nebuta, Kanto, and Tanabata.

Taking place in August, these festivals offer visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture, witness breathtaking displays of artistry, and experience the lively atmosphere that defines Tohoku's festive spirit.

Let's delve into the world of Nebuta, Kanto, and Tanabata and explore the magic they bring to the summer months in Tohoku.

Table of Contents
  1. The Aomori Nebuta Festival (Aomori Prefecture)
  2. The Akita Kanto Festival (Akita Prefecture)
  3. The Sendai Tanabata Festival (Miyagi Prefecture)

The Aomori Nebuta Festival (Aomori Prefecture)

The Aomori Nebuta Festival (Aomori Prefecture)

Surrounded by the vividly dressed Nebuta dancers called haneto are the famous colorful Nebuta floats in Aomori City, paraded through the streets and accompanied by the typical chants and shouts of the dancers: rassera, rassera!

The characteristic glowing floats of the Aomori Nebuta Festival are all based on historical legends and figures, and each is hand-made over a long time by a master craftsperson. Held from August 2nd to August 7th, it is one of Tohoku’s main summer attractions and draws in crowds from all over the country with its enigmatic, lively atmosphere.

Aomori Nebuta Festival Dates
  • When: August 2nd to August 7th
  • Held on the same schedule every year, regardless of the day of the week.
  • The festival is also held on rainy days, apart from August 7th.

The Akita Kanto Festival (Akita Prefecture)

The Akita Kanto Festival (Akita Prefecture)

Held in Akita City of Akita Prefecture, the Akita Kanto Festival is a thrilling event – skilled participants balance tall wooden poles adorned with numerous paper lanterns on their backs, shoulders, and forehead. The poles are called kanto, the name givers of this festival, and one such kanto can weigh up to 50 kilograms! This festival is known for its long and rich history, with its prototype dating back to the mid-18th century.

Akita Kanto Festival Dates
  • When: August 3rd to August 6th
  • Held on the same schedule every year, regardless of the day of the week.
  • The festival is held on rainy days as well.

The Sendai Tanabata Festival (Miyagi Prefecture)

The Sendai Tanabata Festival (Miyagi Prefecture)

Originating as a festival of bamboo decorations, the Tanabata Festival, also called the Star Festival, was traditionally held on July 7th every year, following the old lunar calendar. The Sendai Tanabata festival is held from the 6th to the 8th of August, however, and during this time, the entire city is adorned with large bamboo decorations of 10 meters in height!

More than two million tourists flock to Sendai each year to celebrate the meeting of two star-crossed lovers, two deities who are not allowed to meet each other but once a year. This festival is as atmospheric as it is lively and an inherent part of every Japanese summer.

Sendai Tanabata Festival Dates
  • When: August 6th – August 8th
  • Held on the same schedule every year, regardless of the day of the week.
  • The festival is held on rainy days as well.
*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.

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