If you’re planning to visit Japan in early August, the Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori should be at the top of your list. It’s one of Japan’s most famous summer festivals, offering an unforgettable experience of glowing lanterns, beautiful drums, and dancing in the streets. This magnificent festival is held every year in the northern Japanese city of Aomori. It is here that attendees can expect a combination of tradition, artistry, and pure energy. Whether you’re into history, a photographer, or just someone who loves summer celebrations, the Nebuta Matsuri offers something exciting for everyone.
Illuminated Nebuta at night depicting traditional Japanese folklore – Photo Credit: Willian Justen de Vasconcellos
What Is the Nebuta Matsuri?
The Nebuta Matsuri (ねぶた祭り) is a week-long festival in Aomori City and is typically held from August 2 to August 7 every year. It features enormous, hand-made lantern floats (called Nebuta) which are paraded through the city streets at night. These floats depict samurai warriors, mythical beasts, and scenes from classic Japanese folklore and are all illuminated from the inside. The contrast of the lanterns to the summer night sky is quite spectacular.
The festival is rooted in ancient traditions, which are thought to ward off evil spirits and sleepiness (“neburi nagashi” means “to wash away sleepiness”). Over the centuries, this tradition has evolved into one of the most iconic cultural events in Japan.
Nebuta being carried by hand in the parade for Nebuta Matsuri – Photo Credit: Piti Sirisriro
A Sensory Overload of Light, Sound, and Movement
Prepare to be amazed by the size and detail of these floats, which can reach heights of over 16 feet and widths of 29 feet. They’re made from painted “washi” paper and are stretched out over wire frames and lit from inside by hundreds of light bulbs. Each float takes months of planning and preparation by local teams of craftsmen.
The Nebuta Matsuri is more than just a visual sensation, however. The sounds of taiko drums, Japanese flutes, and cymbals can be heard as dancers called “haneto” leap along the route of the parade. All of the haneto are dressed in colorful yukatas with bells attached, chanting “Rassera! Rassera!” which has no specific meaning, but is meant to build rhythm as well as invite everyone to join in.
Visitors are welcome to rent a “haneto” costume and participate, as long as they follow the dress code and etiquette. It’s one of the few festivals in Japan where tourists are encouraged to join in on the performance.
Nebuta float under a magnificent firework display – Photo Credit: japanophilia
What Else to Enjoy Beyond the Parade
The Nebuta Matsuri offers more than just the evening parades. During the day, you can visit the Nebuta Museum WA-RASSE, where retired floats are on display all year round, and you can learn about the history and techniques used to create them.
Like most matsuris, street food vendors line the routes of the festival and offer everything from grilled scallops and buttered corn to regional dishes like Aomori apple cider and miso oden. You’ll also find local crafts and souvenirs that encapsulate the spirit of Aomori.
On the final night (August 7), the celebration ends with a massive fireworks show, during which some of the floats are put onto boats and floated across the water, which symbolizes sending the spirits away.
Nebuta of traditional Japanese art style depicting a face – Photo Credit: Jun Ohashi on Unsplash
Plan Your Visit
Location: Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture
Dates: August 2–7 annually
How to Get There:
- From Tokyo: Take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Shin-Aomori Station (~3.5 hours), then a short local train or bus to Aomori Station
Nearest Airport: Aomori Airport (AOJ), with direct flights from Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo
Official Website: Nebuta Matsuri
Tips For Enjoying the Festival
- Reserve your hotel early. Hotels typically book up months in advance.
- If you want to participate as a haneto dancer, you can rent costumes at shops near Aomori Station (some offer same-day rentals).
- Bring sunscreen, water, and light clothing. Aomori is cooler than Tokyo, but it is still pretty warm in the summertime.
Musicians playing traditional Japanese instruments at the Nebuta Matsuri – Photo Credit: Shawn.ccf
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
The Nebuta Matsuri is an art form that combines historical storytelling with community engagement as well as beautiful design. It’s more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of Japanese creativity, tradition, and camaraderie. If you’re looking for a unique summer adventure that will stay with you forever, this is the one not to miss.
Float at Nebuta Matsuri illuminated at night – Photo Credit: Kodai Monma on Unsplash
Let Us Help You Make It Unforgettable
At Arigato Travel, we specialize in helping travelers create customized Japan itineraries full of unique experiences. If you’re thinking about adding the Nebuta Matsuri to your travel plans, reach out to us, and we’ll help you make sure that your experience in Japan is unforgettable.
And there you have it. The Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori City is a magical time of year that truly embodies the essence of a summer festival in Japan. From dances, parades, and, of course, beautiful Japanese fireworks, there is no end to the fun and adventures waiting for you in Aomori. With each and every moment filled with culture, history, and tradition, this matsuri is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that definitely should not be missed, especially for those looking to dive head-first into the magical world of Japan. And with 2025’s festival just around the corner, we just simply cannot wait! The only question is, will we see you there?
Featured Photo Credit: Jun Ohashi on Unsplash
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