Photo: © JNTO
Early
Aug
Photo: © JNTO

Nebuta Aomori Festival

Biggest of the three great festivals of Tohoku

When: Early Aug 2024

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.

2
4
Was this article helpful?
Help us improve the site
Give Feedback

Join the discussion

youngtaik lim 6 months ago
올해 저도 6박7일 일정으로 아오모리 네부타 마츠리에 참여했습니다. 정말 신나고 재미있는 축제입니다. 너무 더웠지만 주변 관람객들과 함께 소리 지르며 축제를 즐겼습니다. 정말 행복하고 특별한 경험이었습니다. 그리고 아오모리 네부타 마츠리만 알고 있었는데 고쇼가와라 다치 네부타와 히로사키 네부타 마츠리도 알게 되었습니다. 올해 정말 멋진 축제일정을 보낸 것 같습니다.
Kim a year 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 2 years ago
So interesting!
Elena Lisina 6 years ago
I've seen that in some dorama, and it's my dream to watch it live. Wonderful!

Thank you for your support!

Your feedback has been sent.