Nebuta Matsuri – a must see

Aomori Nebuta Matsuri is yet another big summer festival in Northern Japan that takes place early August (2nd- 7th, fixed every year). It is one of the three largest festivals in Northern Japan.

“Nebuta” refers to the float of a brave warrior-figure which is carried through the center of the city, while dancers wearing a unique costume called ‘Haneto’ dance around in time with the chant Rasserā. The festival is said to be evolved out of traditional Shinto ceremonies, Tanabata, and dates back to as old as 1593.

The fun part of this festival is that tourists can participate in the parade. All you need is to rent the ‘Haneto’ costume (yukata, shoes, socks, hat, etc), put them on, go to the procession route 30 minute before the start, and join the groups. No registration or application necessary.

The sale of tickets for individual viewing seats start in late June.