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Aomori Nebuta Festival 2024: Enjoy the Fiery Summer of Northern Japan!
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The Aomori Nebuta Festival is a traditional celebration held annually in Aomori, in northeastern Japan. This spectacular event is famous for its parades of giant floats called nebuta. We introduce the 2024 festival schedule and access information.
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Aomori Nebuta Festival - A Famous Festival in Northern Japan
Picture courtesy of Aomori Tourism and Convention Association
The Aomori Nebuta Festival is annually celebrated in Aomori Prefecture, which is located in the northern Tohoku region and is a long-standing tradition in Japan. During this spectacular event, gigantic lantern floats (called "nebuta") parade along the main street in Aomori City.
It is said that the Nebuta Festival was originally based on the toro nagashi, a tradition of releasing lanterns (toro) down the river and into the sea on the night of the Tanabata Star Festival(*1), with participants praying for good health. In the Tohoku region, this tradition was referred to as "neburi nagashi," which later became condensed to nebuta, the festival name that is currently used today.
Then, in the middle of the Edo period, about 1716, people started dancing in the festival with lanterns in their hands and decorated floats called "dashi" were also introduced. It wasn’t until the late Edo period that gigantic lantern floats, inspired by the art of kabuki theater, first appeared and livened up the summertime festival.
Another unique trademark of the Nebuta Festival is the boisterous dance performed by dancers called haneto. This article introduces information regarding the annual dates and venues of the Aomori Nebuta Festival, along with some tips on how to enjoy it to the fullest.
*1 Tanabata: a celebration held in July that signals the changing of the seasons.
The Aomori Nebuta Festival Schedule for 2024
© JNTO
Aomori Nebuta Festival 2024: August 2 – August 7, 2024
Official website: https://www.nebuta.jp/foreign/english.html
The program varies on each day of the festival. Also, please be aware that there will be no nebuta floats on August 1, the eve of the festival.
On August 2 and 3 (19:10 - 21:00), the local children will carry the "kodomo nebuta" (children’s nebuta) while the adults pull the large nebuta lantern floats. A total of 30 nebutas, showcasing 15 types of floats per group, will be paraded during the procession.
On August 4 - 6 (19:10 - 21:00), 20 large-sized nebuta floats are scheduled to appear in the parade. The festival is expected to reach its peak during these three days.
On August 7 (13:00 - 15:00), as many as 20 large nebuta floats will be in the spotlight. This is the only day, if not golden opportunity, to observe nebutas during the daylight (as opposed to the conventional displays in the evening). Two other events will take place on this day from 19:15 to 21:00, which are the Nebuta Sea Parade at Aomori Bay and the fireworks display, respectively.
The sea parade refers to the grand finale where floats are carried out to sea while placed on ships. Because these two events occur simultaneously, this is a spectacular chance to admire the sea, nebuta floats, and fireworks in one go.
The Aomori Nebuta Festival Venues and How to Reach Them
The Aomori Nebuta Festival is held at Shinmachi-dori and can be easily reached on foot from JR Aomori Station's East Exit. Here is how to conveniently reach Aomori Station.
From Tokyo
To get to Aomori Station from Tokyo Station, first take the Hayabusa Shinkansen bound for Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto and get off at Shin-Aomori Station. From Shin-Aomori Station, take the JR Ou Main Line bound for Aomori and disembark at Aomori Station, which is the last station.
It takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes to arrive and it costs 17,550 yen. Keep in mind that there are no non-reserved seats in the Hayabusa Shinkansen, so the ticket fare may vary during the busy seasons.
Book your Shinkansen ticket for Aomori
Book the JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)
How to Fully Enjoy the Aomori Nebuta Festival
Here are some tips on how to enjoy the Aomori Nebuta Festival to the fullest.
Spot the Differences among the Nebutas
© JNTO
Needless to say, the showstoppers of the festival are the stunning lantern floats. Perhaps you’ll be able to recognize some of the designs, as many of them originate from kabuki, historical events, mythology, and legends.
With as many as 20 to 30 floats parading per day, you'll see various themes such as Jiraiya, the high-spirited bandit of Kabuki plays, and Son Goku, the Monkey King from the Chinese legend “Journey to the West"—among many other characters.
One of the amazing attractions of the Aomori Nebuta Festival is the debut of a different nebuta each year. Comparing a wide variety of floats is also an entertaining pastime, too.
Join the Festival as a Haneto Dancer
Picture courtesy of Aomori Tourism and Convention Association
One of the highlights of the Aomori Nebuta Festival is the throngs of enthusiastic haneto dancers. Their cheerful “rassera” chants—intertwined with their hops, twirls, and twists—will surely keep you on the edge of your seat. Who knows? You might even find yourself dancing along with the captivating performance.
Here is some great news for those who decide to take on the dancing challenge! You simply need to dress up in the haneto clothing to join the festive dance. And there’s more! You can rent the haneto costume at the venue for 4,000 yen.
FAQ
Who celebrates Nebuta Matsuri?
The Nebuta Matsuri is a famous summer festival held in Aomori City, in the Aomori Prefecture of Japan. This vibrant and colorful festival celebrates the legends and folklore of the region, featuring large illuminated paper lantern floats known as "nebuta." These floats are often shaped like mythical figures, historical warriors, or popular characters.
The Nebuta Matsuri is one of the most well-known festivals in Japan, drawing locals and tourists alike to witness the impressive display of artistry and craftsmanship. The festival usually takes place in early August and is a symbol of community pride and cultural heritage for the people of Aomori Prefecture. The celebration includes traditional music, dancing, and performances that further enrich the festive atmosphere of the Nebuta Matsuri.
What are nebuta floats made of?
Nebuta floats, the centerpiece of Aomori's Nebuta Matsuri festival, are intricate structures crafted from a blend of traditional and modern materials. These floats feature frames constructed from wire, bamboo, and wood to provide stability and shape. The outer coverings consist of thin, durable washi paper, which serves as a canvas for detailed and vibrant hand-painted designs depicting historical, mythological, or cultural themes. Bamboo strips are sometimes integrated into the float's structure for additional detailing. Illumination plays a significant role in the floats' visual impact, with internal light sources like bulbs or LEDs creating a stunning display as the floats are paraded through the streets. The artistry, craftsmanship, and use of these materials combine to create the impressive and captivating nebuta floats that define the striking aesthetic of the Nebuta Matsuri festival in Aomori, Japan.
When to go to Aomori?
The ideal time to visit Aomori depends on your preferences for specific experiences. For witnessing the vibrant Nebuta Matsuri festival, plan a trip in early August when Aomori City bursts to life with colorful floats and cultural celebrations. For cherry blossom viewing, visit from late April to early May to witness the enchanting pink blooms that adorn the region. To experience the stunning autumn foliage, mid to late October offers a picturesque display of colorful leaves in Aomori's parks and forests. Winter enthusiasts can enjoy snowy landscapes by visiting from December to February, especially in areas like the Hakkoda Mountains. If you prefer milder weather and outdoor activities, late spring and early autumn provide comfortable temperatures for exploring the region without the extremes of summer heat or winter cold. Each season in Aomori offers distinct and captivating experiences, catering to a range of interests and preferences for visitors to savor.
Why do people celebrate Aomori Nebuta Matsuri?
The Aomori Nebuta Matsuri is celebrated for its multifaceted significance, encompassing cultural heritage, community unity, tourism promotion, cultural preservation, and joyous festivities. Rooted in centuries-old traditions, the festival showcases Aomori's rich cultural tapestry through elaborate nebuta floats, embodying local folklore and artistry. This event serves as a symbol of community pride, bringing together residents and visitors to partake in the vibrant celebrations that foster a sense of shared identity. Beyond its cultural importance, the Nebuta Matsuri also serves as a key tourism attraction, attracting a diverse audience and boosting the local economy. By continuing this tradition, Aomori residents preserve their cultural practices and ensure the legacy of the festival for future generations, creating an immersive and entertaining experience that delights and educates participants while celebrating the best of Aomori's cultural heritage.
Why visit Aomori?
Aomori, located in northern Japan, beckons visitors with a compelling array of attractions and experiences. The famous Nebuta Matsuri, a spectacular summer festival showcasing illuminated floats and traditional performances, offers a vibrant cultural immersion. The prefecture's natural beauty shines through its UNESCO World Heritage sites like Shirakami Sanchi, scenic landscapes such as the Hakkoda Mountains and Oirase Gorge, and seasonal delights of cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage. Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in Aomori's fresh seafood, renowned apples, and local sake. Historical and cultural landmarks like Hirosaki Castle and the Aomori Museum of Art provide insights into the region's heritage. Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in activities like hiking, skiing, cycling, and relaxation in hot springs, making Aomori a multifaceted destination that caters to a diverse range of interests, from culture and nature to gastronomy and adventure.
Where to See Nebuta Floats outside the Festival Season
Although nebuta floats are usually disassembled when the festival is over, you can see some full-sized ones on display at the Nebuta Museum WA-RASSE.
The museum also hosts haneto costume try-ons and nebuta-building workshops, which allow visitors to enjoy the Aomori Nebuta Festival all year round!
Nebuta Museum WA-RASSE
Address: Aomori, Aomori, Yasukata 1-1-1
Official Website: http://www.nebuta.jp/warasse/foreign/english.html
Aomori Nebuta Festival
View Map
Address
Aomori, Aomori, Yanakawa 1<br>
Near the East Exit of JR Aomori Station
WiFi
Not Available
Accepted Credit Cards
Not Available
Access
JR Aomori Station
Access
About 5 minutes by foot from Aomori Station
Website
http://www.nebuta.or.jp/ (a program-translated English page available)
Written by
Previous experience as an editor at a women's media company in Japan. I lived in Australia for a while and joined MATCHA after returning to Japan. In charge of editing, promoting sponsored content, and creative direction. I love watching Western TV series.
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