Visit Japan to Check out the Nebuta Festival in Aomori

Japan is a culturally rich country and visitors are in for a treat when they go to visit the wonderful ‘land of the rising sun.’ Not only do they get to marvel at beautiful castles and be awestruck by the spiritual constructions and temples, but they can also witness the wonder of nature in spring during the cherry blossom festival.

However, this is not it. There is more to see in Japan than historical and spiritual structures or the beauty of nature. The people of Japan have some beautiful and eye-pleasing rituals they follow. For example, if you are in Japan in the beginning of August then you can witness one of the most colourful and vibrant festivals in all of Japan, the Nebuta festival that is held in the Aomori prefecture in the region called Tohoku, in Japan.

The Occurrences in the Festival

Picture Credit: bit.ly/1dstKLT

The Aomori Nebuta festival is held on a grand scale and features huge, lighted floats that include pictures of famous warriors of Japan and Kabuki actors. These floats are seen parading along the streets of Aomori. This is almost a weeklong festival that starts on the second of August and continues till the seventh of the month. Also featuring in this festival is the sound of bamboo flutes and the beating of massive drums. The word, ‘rasseera’ is also shouted from time to time during the event by Haneto dancers. This parade is almost like a six night festival.

The Final Evening and Origin of the Festival

Picture Credit: bit.ly/1dRBPwk

In the final evening of the festival, a large lantern, called a toro, is floated out into the massive sea. Apparently, this takes along with it evil spirits that might cause any sort of harm. There is also a display of fabulous fireworks that evening. This festival is extremely energetic and visually dramatic. According to historians, the origin of the festival dates back to the 800’s, when a general made large creatures to scare away any kind of rebels in the area. Each float takes about a year to make.

Next time you visit Japan, try and plan your trip so that you can witness the true wonder of the Aomori Nebuta festival.

Post by Beautiful Places to visit in Japan.