“Neputa” (or “Nebuta”) is popular Japanese summer festival (Matsuri). Aomori Nebuta (Aomori-city in Aomori prefecture) and Hirosaki Neputa (Hirosaki city in Aomori prefecture) are well-known. Neputa/Nebuta typically takes place in early August (2nd -7th in Aomori and 1st – 7th in Hirosaki). Neputa/Nebuta refers to the float, which is designed and depict scenes usually from Japanese folklore, kabuki, or historical events. Aomori Neputa/Nebuta features fan-shaped or rectangular floats with warrior themes, while Hirosaki Nebuta showcases more three-dimensional, artistic floats with a focus on beauty and craftsmanship.
The Neputa/Nebuta festival involves thousands of participants, including dancers, musicians, and float pullers. The participants often wear traditional costumes and chant “Rassera, rassera” (Aomori Nebuta) or “Yah-yadoh” (Hirosaki Neputa) as they parade through the streets.
The origin of the Neputa/Nebuta festival
The origin of the festival are believed to date back to the 9th century. It is said to have started as a ritual to ward off sleepiness and evil spirits by driving them away with noise and lights. The festival is a celebration of local culture and artistry, drawing visitors from all over Japan and the world. It is also an important event for the local community, showcasing their craftsmanship and traditions. The Neputa/Nebuta festival is a vibrant and dynamic event that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Aomori Prefecture.
Hirosaki Neputa festival 2024
Date: August 1st – 4th, August 5th and 6th, August 7th
Time: August 1st – 4th : Dotemachi Course 19:00～ August 5th and 6th: StationFront Course 19:00～ August 7th: Dotemachi Nanukabi Course 10:00～
Venue: Dotemachi Course, Station Front Course, Dotemachi Nanukabi Course
Prices: Paid Reserved Seats：Adult ¥1,800, Child ¥900 Now on sale!
*Other seats are free of charge.
Contact: Hirosaki Tourism Convention and Association 0172-35-3131
Access: by bus (a few minutes walk from Shita Dotemachi Bus Stop and walk) or JR train (30 Minute walk from JR Hirosaki Station)
From the Amazing Aomori website < https://aomori-tourism.com/en/event/detail_26.html>
Aomori Nebuta festival 2024
Date: August 2nd – August 7th Annually ・August 1st 18:00～21:00 Eve Festival, 19:00～20:40 Asamushi Onsen Fireworks Festival ・August 2nd – 3rd (Evening)19:10～21:00 Parade of Children Nebutas and Large Nebutas ・August 4th – 6th (Evening)19:10～21:00 Parade of Large Nebutas ・August 7th (Daytime/Evening)13:00～15:00 Parade of Large Nebutas / 19:15～21:00 Aomori Nebuta Ocean Parade, Aomori Fireworks Festival
Venue: Central part of Aomori-shi
Prices: Paid Reserved Seat ¥2,600 and up per person
Reserved seats become available the end of June.
*Seats other than the reserved seats are free of charge.
Contact：Aomori Tourism and Convention Association 017-723-7211
Access: Within walking distance from JR Aomori Station
From the Amazing Aomori website < https://aomori-tourism.com/en/event/detail_15.html>
Which festival (matsuri), Aomori or Hirosaki will you come this year? Both cities are famous for apple productions and have castles, shrines and beautiful parks, which attract many tourists. Why don’t you visit the both?
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