Photo: © JNTO
Aug 2nd
Aug 7th
Photo: © JNTO

Nebuta Aomori Festival

Biggest of the three great festivals of Tohoku

When: Aug 2nd - Aug 7th 2023
Please note this event is being held online. If you are outside Japan in a different timezone and hoping to tune in, be reminded that all times shown here are Japan Standard Time (+9 GMT).

Nebuta Matsuri is the biggest festival in the Tohoku Region. This 18th-century festival is held in Aomori City every year in August. The highlight of the festival is the daily parade of gigantic, colorful lantern floats accompanied by large taiko drums, musicians, and dancers. The festival is usually held on 2nd–7th August each year and is even listed as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan.

The lanterns are constructed of painted washi paper over a wireframe, usually depicting gods, historical or mythical figures from Japanese culture, kabuki actors, and characters from popular TV shows. They are illuminated from the inside resulting in vibrant colors.

The lantern floats are pushed along the streets, spinning around the crowd. Free seating is available on the ground along the 3-km parade route, although reserved seats are also available. Many other events are held during the festival at Rassera Land. Nebuta Matsuri's festival floats are kept there during the day so that visitors can take a closer look' and even get an opportunity to meet the designers. Moreover, there are song and dance performances, as well as vendors selling food and festival-related goods.

In 2021, for the first time in history, the Nebuta Festival will be live-streamed for audiences across the world to enjoy!

On August 27 to 28, tune in to the streaming channel from 18:00 and 20:00 Japan time (GMT +9) and enjoy the bright, colorful floats.

You won't want to miss this great opportunity.

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Kim 8 months ago
I haven't been to this festival in person, but the Nebuta Wa Rasse Museum in Aomori is a great substitute if you can't time your visit right. You can still see examples of the floats there, and learn more about the event!
My Đặng a year ago
So interesting!
Elena Lisina 5 years ago
I've seen that in some dorama, and it's my dream to watch it live. Wonderful!

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