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Epic Fiery Floats and Festive Nights: How to Enjoy the Magic of the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri (2024 Guide)

Epic Fiery Floats and Festive Nights: How to Enjoy the Magic of the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri (2024 Guide)

Last updated: 20 May 2024

Experience the excitement of the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri Festival with vibrant floats, music, and street snacks. Coloring the streets of Aomori City every summer, the Nebuta Matsuri is one of the Three Great Festivals of Tohoku.

LIVE JAPAN visited the local workshops to discover how the giant nebuta floats are made and to hear the passionate thoughts of the artisans. We also gained tips on how to best enjoy the festival from the first-ever Taiwanese Miss Nebuta!

Table of Contents
  1. 2024 Aomori Nebuta Matsuri Event Schedule
  2. What is the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri?
  3. See how Nebuta floats are made at the Nebuta Workshops
  4. 'Miss Nebuta' shares how best to enjoy the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri!
  5. How to Get to the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri
  6. Recommended Hotels for the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri
  7. Enjoy more of the festival's cultural context

2024 Aomori Nebuta Matsuri Event Schedule

  • Date: August 2-7, 2024
  • Place: The streets of Aomori City (Shinmachi-dori Street, Heiwa Koen-dori Street, National Route 4 and 7, Hakko-dori Street)
  • Viewing Seats: Individual viewing seats (for up to 9 people) will be available for sale at convenience stores nationwide and other locations starting in early July. Details will be announced in mid-June on the official website.
Details
・Pre-Festival Event:
Date: August 1st
Time: 6 PM - 9 PM
Venue: Special stage at Aoi-Umi Park
・Children's Nebuta Parade and Grand Nebuta Parade:
Dates: August 2-3
Time: From 7 PM
Children's Nebuta: Around 10 floats
Grand Nebuta: Around 15 floats
・Grand Nebuta Parade:
Dates: August 4-6
Time: From 6:50 PM
Floats: Around 20
Results Announcement: On August 6th, Nebuta Grand Prize and other awards will be announced, and award-winning Nebuta floats can be viewed.
・Grand Nebuta Parade:
Date: August 7
Time: From 1 PM
Floats: About 20
・70th Aomori Fireworks Festival and Nebuta Maritime Parade:
Date: August 7th
Time: Around 7:15 PM - 9 PM
Venue: Aomori Port
The festival's grand finale will feature the award-winning Nebuta floats parading at Aomori Port, accompanied by a fireworks display. The Nebuta Maritime Parade is set to include four floats.
Route of the Nebuta Festival
Route of the Nebuta Festival

See the schedule on the official Nebuta website (in English).

What is the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri?

The Aomori Nebuta Matsuri is a vibrant and traditional Japanese summer festival known for its massive illuminated paper lantern floats, lively parades, and cultural celebrations. One of Japan’s leading and most traditional summer festivals, it takes place every August.

“Nebuta” are giant lanterns, which can be as large as five meters in height and nine meters in length, and the lanterns, on floats, make their way around the city area, near JR Aomori Station.

Visitors from not just within Japan, but from Asia, America, Europe, and all around the world gather here to see these amazing sights.

The Nebuta going down the street. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)
The Nebuta going down the street. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)

During the festival, the streets around Aomori Station (Shinmachi Dōri, Heiwa-Kōen Dōri, National Route 4, and Hakko Dōri, amongst others) are closed, and the Nebuta will be brought out to run down the center of these streets, in a 3.1-kilometer-long parade.

Beer and other street snack stores line the sides of the roads, making for an exciting experience as you walk down the street.

The streets start to fill out during the afternoon, and by nightfall, numerous stores have set up shop too. (Photo credit: Vassamon Anansukkasem, shutterstock.com)
The streets start to fill out during the afternoon, and by nightfall, numerous stores have set up shop too. (Photo credit: Vassamon Anansukkasem, shutterstock.com)

Though the origins of the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri are not exactly clear, it is believed to have originated from the Nara period (from 710 to 794), when the tradition of floating lanterns down streams during Tanabata, or the Star Festival, arrived from China and was altered.

To ward off the drowsiness that interferes with agriculture and farm work, lanterns and bamboo were floated down the rivers and oceans.

In Japanese, the word for “sleepy” is “nemutai,” and the word eventually evolved into “nebuta,” the name of the festival.

The tradition of floating lanterns down rivers is observed all throughout Japan.
The tradition of floating lanterns down rivers is observed all throughout Japan.

See how Nebuta floats are made at the Nebuta Workshops

Each white tent is a “nebuta workshop,” where nebuta are built for the festival.
Each white tent is a “nebuta workshop,” where nebuta are built for the festival.

From the beginning of May each year, “Nebuta Rasse Land” appears at Aoiumi Park next to Aomori Port. This is where the workshops that build the nebuta floats are housed, which are painstakingly crafted from scratch each year.

This process takes around three months, with the nebuta masters and assistants working non-stop every day to ensure only the best are unveiled to the public.

A staff member of the Nebuta Appreciation Society.
A staff member of the Nebuta Appreciation Society.

After stepping inside one of the tents, massive nebuta floats appear before us. Some have faces, while others are yet to be covered with paper. This particular tent is the workshop of the Nebuta Appreciation Society, where lovers of the art gather to raise funds by selling products and such, even in the absence of sponsors.

Shin Suwa, the craftsman of the Nebuta Appreciation Society, carefully crafts this year’s nebuta.
Shin Suwa, the craftsman of the Nebuta Appreciation Society, carefully crafts this year’s nebuta.

We interviewed Shin Suwa, the craftsman of the Nebuta Appreciation Society.

The vivid colors are beautifully accumulated with each stroke by the creator.
The vivid colors are beautifully accumulated with each stroke by the creator.

Everyone inside the tent was in high spirits. Painting, connecting wires, pasting on paper - all were working hard to bring their creation to life. For nebuta craftspeople, an essential element is imbuing a nebuta with their heart and soul to show people their passion.

“I want as many people to see our nebuta as possible,” said Shin as he added color to his creation. Never resting until satisfied, these impassioned craftspeople eagerly await the day when their handiwork will light up the streets, hoping that more and more people in Japan and the world can visit and discover its magic.

A newly completed nebuta float by the Aomori Yamada High School.
A newly completed nebuta float by the Aomori Yamada High School.

'Miss Nebuta' shares how best to enjoy the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri!

Wu Yung-Hsin, in the middle of the photo, of the 2022 Miss Nebuta Grand Prix.
Wu Yung-Hsin, in the middle of the photo, of the 2022 Miss Nebuta Grand Prix.

The duty of introducing the gigantic nebuta floats falls to “Miss Nebuta.” The Miss Nebuta contest began 50 years ago, with the winner serving as the tourism ambassador for the festival.

2022 marked the first-ever non-Japanese winner of the Miss Nebuta Grand Prix with Wu Yung-Hsin from Taiwan.

Wu Yung-Hsin, of the 2022 Miss Nebuta Grand Prix.
Wu Yung-Hsin, of the 2022 Miss Nebuta Grand Prix.

Wu Yung-Hsin came to Japan as an exchange student in 2015, moving to Aomori City in spring 2020 as a member of an international exchange team to introduce the culture and characteristics of Taiwan and Aomori.

She was hesitant when first hearing about the Miss Nebuta contest, but plucked up the courage to apply. After passing through written screenings and interviews, she was eventually selected as the 2022 Miss Nebuta among 12 finalists.

Despite her willingness to face the challenge, she was doubtful she’d get anywhere at first. “When I heard my name being announced, I was so shocked I couldn’t speak.”

“Being Taiwanese, I can communicate in several languages and help promote the charm of the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri to many people throughout the world.”

Displaying her abilities and confidence to the interviewers, it’s no surprise they decided to pick her to help lead the festival into a new age.

Asked how to make the most of the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, Wu answered, “I recommend staying for two days and spending the night. On the first day, walk, explore the streets, and check out all the nebuta floats. On the second day, experience the festival’s energy through the haneto procession.”

“The nebuta floats themselves are really cool!” said a fired-up Wu. “They brim with force and vigor, and you’ll surely become spellbound seeing them sway back and forth.”

Wu says that if you have the chance to visit Japan in 2023, she strongly suggests lining up your trip with the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri.

Ways to celebrate

From Nebuta lanterns crafted by local children to the grand debut of colossal Nebuta floats, the festival showcases a wide array of attractions.

The parade route for the floats varies daily, offering a chance to witness them regardless of the festival day you attend. However, August 6th is highly recommended, as it features special performances by renowned artists and a float creators' award ceremony. On this day, you can also marvel at the award-winning floats.

One of the previous winners of the “Nebuta Taishō” awards. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)
One of the previous winners of the “Nebuta Taishō” awards. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)

Additionally, on the festival's closing day, August 7th, you can witness the massive Nebuta parading through the streets during the daytime, and in the evening, the award-winning Nebuta floats will gracefully glide across the sea. The spectacle of Nebuta lanterns drifting on the water creates a truly surreal and captivating sight, making it an experience you won't want to overlook.

An award winning Nebuta being floated on the sea. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)
An award winning Nebuta being floated on the sea. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)
For the finale, fireworks light up the summer night sky in an array of colors. (Photo credit: Vassamon Anansukkasem, shutterstock.com)
For the finale, fireworks light up the summer night sky in an array of colors. (Photo credit: Vassamon Anansukkasem, shutterstock.com)

Another standout feature of the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri is the "Haneto." Adorned in extravagant and flamboyant attire, these performers enthusiastically chant "rassera, rassera, rasse-rasse-rassera" while engaging in lively jumps and dances. Their spirited performances contribute significantly to the festival's vibrant ambiance.

Against the backdrop of the lantern-bearing carts, their energetic dancing is so infectious that it may inspire you to join in and dance alongside them.

The Haneto dancing with smiles splashed across their faces. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)
The Haneto dancing with smiles splashed across their faces. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)

While the Haneto performers primarily set the festive tone, regular attendees are more than welcome to join in the fun. Foreign visitors can also participate without the need for pre-registration.

To join, simply don the standard Haneto outfit and wait at designated points along the parade route before it begins.

You can purchase the outfit for around 4,000 yen from the Aomori City Office, or you can opt to rent it. The official Aomori Nebuta Matsuri website provides information on where to obtain the outfit and offers English explanations of the rules, making it easy for you to participate.

If you're eager to fully immerse yourself in the festival experience, participating as a Haneto alongside the locals is a fantastic option. They will gladly teach you the Haneto dance, creating an opportunity to build connections and learn from them.

However, be prepared for a physically demanding experience, as the dance can be quite strenuous and may leave your legs feeling tired the following day.

If you participate in the festival as a Haneto, you’ll definitely make some unforgettable memories from your holiday. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)
If you participate in the festival as a Haneto, you’ll definitely make some unforgettable memories from your holiday. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)

The festival boasts a range of other captivating attractions, including the melodic tunes of flutes, the powerful rhythms of taiko drums, and the resounding and unforgettable "shan, shan, shan" echoes of the teburigane, a distinctive type of cymbal.

These musical performances, known as "hayashi," are considered an integral part of the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, and it is said that the festival wouldn't be complete without them.

The clear sound of the flute stirs up the atmosphere. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)
The clear sound of the flute stirs up the atmosphere. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)
The roar of the taiko drums in your chest leaves an impression of the festival in your heart. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)
The roar of the taiko drums in your chest leaves an impression of the festival in your heart. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)
The playing of the teburigane adds to the hayashi. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)
The playing of the teburigane adds to the hayashi. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)

In addition to the already stunning Nebuta lanterns, the Haneto and Hayashi performances add excitement and energy to the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri.

For those who want an up-close experience, you can secure a paid viewing seat through various ticketing services or vending machines at the Aomori City Office.

The Aomori Nebuta Matsuri brings summer to life with its impressive Nebuta floats, dancers, and musicians. For those wanting a close-up view, individual paid viewing seats can be purchased online or at convenience stores nationwide. Sales are expected to start in late June, with details announced around the same time.

Each ticket costs 3,500 yen (price for 2024 is yet to be determined) and offers designated seating with pipe chairs or bleacher seats near the street for an immersive experience.

Additionally, from May 8, 2024, premium viewing seats (VIP seats, four-person seats, two-person seats) will be available from Omatsuri Japan for the event running from August 2 to August 6. For more details, check the official website.

When viewing it up close, you can feel how imposing the Nebuta are, and the liveliness of the Hareto. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)
When viewing it up close, you can feel how imposing the Nebuta are, and the liveliness of the Hareto. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)

Of course, you can also enjoy the Nebuta and Haneto performances, as well as the Hayashi music, for free along the streets.

However, please note that the atmosphere can become lively and chaotic, potentially leading to separation from your companions. Exercise caution to avoid injuries in the midst of the festivities!

How to Get to the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri

For a visit to the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, we recommend taking the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shin-Aomori Station, then transferring to the JR Ou Main Line to Aomori Station.

The festival is conveniently located near Aomori Station, making it easy to find. Both Nebuta Rasse Land and the procession route are within walking distance.

Transportation Steps:
1. Take the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shin-Aomori Station (3 to 3.5 hours).
2. Transfer to the JR Ou Main Line from Shin-Aomori Station to Aomori Station (6 minutes).

Travelers with international passports should consider the JR EAST PASS (Tohoku area) for convenience and savings.

Recommended Hotels for the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri

As the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri is held around Aomori Station, hotels and other accommodations are plentiful. Access is also a breeze, and many rooms boast direct views of the processions from their windows. Of course, rooms fill up quickly, so we recommend booking as early as possible.

If you can’t book a hotel in Aomori City, there’s still hope! Using the JR EAST PASS, you can freely and easily take the train to nearby cities like Hirosaki, Goshogawara, and Hachinohe and spend the night there.

You can also stay in the hot spring resort town of Asamushi Onsen, which is around 30 mins by car or train from Aomori City, making for a more relaxing and memorable trip!

  • Asamushi Onsen
    • Address Asamushi Onsen Tourism Association, 70 Asamushi Hotarudani, Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture, 039-3501
      View Map
    • Nearest Station Asamushionsen Station (Aoimori Tetsudo)
      20 minutes by car
    • Phone Number 017-752-3250

Enjoy more of the festival's cultural context

For sightseers who plan to see the Nebuta at night, you can spend the daytime exploring the surrounding facilities, and learning more about its history and the construction process of the Nebuta, for a more enjoyable festival experience.

For example, a one-minute walk away from JR Aomori Station is Nebuta Museum WA-RASSE, a museum that highlights the history and draws of the Nebuta Festivals, and has an information corner where you can learn about the origin and history of the festival from the large Nebuta on display, and even an event space where you can experience the Hayashi and Haneto for yourself.

The exterior of Nebuta-Museum WA RASSE is painted in red, a color symbolic of the Nebuta.
The exterior of Nebuta-Museum WA RASSE is painted in red, a color symbolic of the Nebuta.

The explanations on the exhibits inside are available in English, Chinese, and other languages as well. Recently, a translation system that allows you to scan a QR code with your smartphone to view information about the Nebuta in your own language was also implemented.

With multi-language support, you can have fun without any worries. The place is open all year round, and it’s recommended to try out the Nebuta Matsuri experience during the off-season too.

Medium and large-sized Nebuta on display in the “Nebuta Hall”.
Medium and large-sized Nebuta on display in the “Nebuta Hall”.

On top of that, about eight minutes away from JR Aomori Station is “Nebuta Rasse Land” in Aoiumi Park. Every year from spring to summer (until August 6), around 20 large Nebuta are lined up for display. You can see the pristine state of the Nebuta before departure up close, and seeing them while taking in the ocean view is an enjoyable activity indeed.

Visitors to Nebuta Rasse Land. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)
Visitors to Nebuta Rasse Land. (Photo credit: Aomori Tourism Convention Association)

Rather than simply watching the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, learning about its origins and history, and participating in various experiences will make your first visit there 100% more enjoyable.

Hype yourself up at the festival with the locals, and have an unforgettable six days together. Foreign language support is available as well, so do be sure to come and enjoy Tohoku’s largest festival!

  • Nebuta Museum WA-RASSE (Nebuta Museum, Nebuta Hall)
    ねぶたの家 ワ・ラッセ(ねぶたミュージアム、ねぶたホール)
    • Address 1-1-1, Yasukata, Aomori City, Aomori, 030-0803
    • Phone Number 017-752-1311
    • ・Hours: 9 AM to 7 PM (Until 6 PM from September to April)
      ・Closed on August 9th and 10th, December 31st, and January 1st
      ・Admission: 620 yen for adults, 460 yen for high school students, 260 yen for elementary and middle school students

  • Nebuta Rasse Land
    ねぶたラッセランド
    • Address 2-1 Yasukata, Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture
    • Phone Number 017-735-8750
    • ・Volunteer Guide Inquiries: Nebuta Guide Team - 017-752-1311 (inside Nebuta House Wa Rasse)
      ・Event Duration: Until August 6
      ・Admission: Free

Text by: Tsubasa Shimoda, craftspeople and Miss Nebuta interview + 2022 updates by Shitamachi Kizoku

*This article was originally published in April 2020 and updated in May 2024. Always confirm the latest information on official websites, etc.

*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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