Aomori Nebuta Odyssey: An Exclusive Journey into the Heart of Japan’s Summer Festival

This is a truly special experience, limited to just one group per day.

Priced at 1.2 million yen per group (up to six guests), it includes the luxury of staying together under one roof in a private, beautifully restored traditional house.

Live like a local and fully immerse yourself in the spirit of Aomori’s summer—comfortably, intimately, and entirely at your own pace.

The journey begins with lunch at the popular eatery Daifukumaru, where you can savour fresh seafood caught in Aomori Bay. Featuring seasonal dishes that showcase the region’s rich bounty, this meal offers a true taste of the port town’s vibrant culinary culture.

In the afternoon, dive into the world of Nebuta by trying on the traditional festival costume worn by dancers known as Haneto. Donning this vibrant attire transforms you from a spectator into an active participant. The bright colours, the precise way the sash is tied, and the cheerful jingling of bells all build a sense of anticipation, letting you feel the festival’s energy before it even begins.

After the costume fitting, enjoy a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes of Nebuta creation. At Nebuta no Ie Wa Rasse or the Nebuta Warehouse, you will get an up-close look at how these massive lantern floats come to life—and witness the incredible skill and passion of the artisans. The intricate, vividly painted details and the sheer scale of the floats—crafted over several months—are nothing short of breathtaking.

As night falls, the festival’s main event comes to life. Massive Nebuta floats parade through the streets with electrifying energy, as Haneto dancers leap and spin alongside them, and the powerful rhythm of taiko drums fills the air. The fusion of light and sound sets the summer night aglow in a dazzling spectacle. From your reserved seat, you will be fully immersed in the festival’s exhilarating atmosphere and emotion. This unforgettable evening leaves you with a profound sense of the local pride and spirit that make the celebration so alive.

Begin your day with a visit to Tsuru-no-Mai Bridge, Japan’s longest wooden triple-arched bridge. Set against the backdrop of majestic Mount Iwaki, the scenery shifts beautifully with the seasons and time of day. Early mornings are especially magical—mist rises over the lake, and soft light casts a dreamlike glow, making it a perfect spot for stunning photos. Here, you can still feel the lingering energy of the festival, gently balanced by the serenity and natural beauty that surrounds you.

Next, visit the nationally renowned Rice Field Art. These giant images, created by planting different varieties of rice—are best viewed from the observation deck. Each year showcases a new theme, ranging from anime to traditional performing arts, blending humour and emotion across the vast landscape. This collaborative masterpiece, crafted by the local community, stands as a proud symbol of Aomori’s creative spirit.

Conclude your journey with a visit to tranquil places steeped in history and nature. Begin at Saruka Shrine, where lotus flowers bloom gracefully on the pond’s surface. Then, wander through Seibi-en Garden, a celebrated landscape that harmoniously blends Japanese and Western styles. Its ever-changing seasonal beauty offers a luxurious escape from the everyday.

You will be transferred to Aomori Airport or Shin-Aomori Station, marking the end of your journey. After experiencing both the vibrant energy of the festival and the serenity of nature, these two days are sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart.