A Guide to the Nebuta Festival: Aomori’s Most Spectacular Summer Event

If there’s one summer festival in Japan you absolutely shouldn’t miss, it’s the Nebuta Festival in Aomori. Picture massive glowing warrior floats, high-energy dancing in the streets, and enough taiko drumming to make your heart skip a beat, in the best way possible.

Held every August in northern Japan, the Nebuta Matsuri isn’t just a festival. It’s a full-blown celebration that lights up the city with colour, culture, and joyful chaos. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned matsuri-goer, this larger-than-life event is sure to sweep you off your feet—and maybe even into the dance line.

Ready to dive in? Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Nebuta Festival a must-see summer experience in Japan.

What Is the Nebuta Festival?

The Nebuta Matsuri is one of Japan’s most iconic summer events, famed for its colossal illuminated floats—vividly painted paper sculptures shaped into legendary warriors, deities, and mythical beasts. These glowing giants parade through the streets at night, accompanied by booming taiko drums, the lilting sounds of flutes, and the enthusiastic chants of haneto dancers.

This is not just a spectacle to observe, you will feel the rhythm, the excitement, and the irresistible pull to join in the fun.

A Festival That Comes Alive at Night

As the sun sets over Aomori Bay, the city begins to shimmer. Each evening, the illuminated floats roll through the streets, pulled by teams of energetic locals, while hundreds of haneto dancers swirl around in vibrant costumes. The atmosphere is electric—music, laughter, and movement pulse through every corner.

And yes, you can be part of it! Visitors are welcome to join as haneto dancers. Just rent a costume from local shops or hotels, learn the easy dance steps, and get ready to shout “Rassera, Rassera!” with the crowd.

More Than Just a Parade

While the float parade is the heart of the festival, there’s more to experience throughout the week. During the day, you can visit the Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse to learn about the history and craftsmanship behind the floats. Or take part in hands-on workshops where you can try painting or constructing mini-nebuta lanterns.

Source: Nebuta Museum WA RASSE

Local food stalls pop up all over the city, offering regional specialties like grilled scallops, squid, and Aomori apples in every form imaginable. It’s the perfect time to dive into Aomori’s culinary culture.

When and Where to Go

The Nebuta Festival takes place from August 2 to 7 each year in Aomori City, which is easily accessible via the JR Tohoku Shinkansen (about 3.5 hours from Tokyo to Shin-Aomori Station).

Pro tip: Book your accommodations well in advance—the festival is incredibly popular, and hotels fill up quickly.

Don’t Miss the Finale

The grand finale on 7 August features a daytime parade and a stunning fireworks display over Aomori Bay at night. Watching the glowing floats reflected in the water as fireworks burst overhead is a magical way to end your summer adventure.

The Nebuta Festival isn’t just one of Japan’s most spectacular summer events—it’s an unforgettable celebration of art, energy, and tradition. Whether you’re drawn by the dazzling floats, the electric street dancing, or the warm hospitality of Aomori locals, this festival promises to leave you with memories that glow long after the lights go out.

So if you’re planning a summer trip to Japan, make sure the Nebuta Festival is on your list. Contact us to help plan your Nebuta Festival experience! Don’t miss our other travel guides for more incredible destinations across Japan. Click here to explore.