The heat of summer is approaching but there is some fun under the sun if you happen to travel north. Each year around the first week of August, the six prefectures of the Tohoku region each hold their own unique multi-day celebration. Trying to see all of them can be a rewarding challenge, while not attending any is probably a huge disappointment.
1. Waraji Matsuri
July 31 – August 1
Held in Fukushima City, Fukushima: locals heave an enormous sandal around the streets accompanied by song and dance.
2. Sansa Odori Matsuri
August 1-4
Held in Morioka, Iwate: world's largest parade of taiko drummers march through the streets
3. Nebuta Matsuri
August 2-7
Held in Aomori City, Aomori (with additional variants of Nebuta held Hirosaki and Goshogowara): elaborate handmade parade floats pulled to a rhythm of dancing, jumping, and chanting. Very high energy, especially after dark.
4. Kanto Matsuri
August 3-6
Held in Akita City, Akita: local super athletes, with a handful of youths, balance mind-numbingly high bamboo poles carrying paper lanterns through the city streets.
5. Hanagasa Matsuri
August 5-7
Held in Yamagata City, Yamagata: tracing its origins from the farmers of yesteryear, dancers perform a special dance involving spinning their large straw hats.
6. Tanabata Matsuri
August 6-8
Held in Sendai, Miyagi: a quieter festival impressing crowds with its countless artistic streamer decorations hanging throughout the many shopping arcades. On the night of August 5th, there are fireworks along the Hirose River.
