Events & Festivals in Iwate

Witness the legendary 'Kenka Tanabata' where massive floats collide in a spectacular battle of strength!

Aug 7Starts in 4 days

A spectacular fireworks display featuring 10,000 shells over the Iwai River in Ichinoseki, Iwate. Enjoy the vibrant summer night atmosphere and local food stalls.

Aug 7 – Aug 9Starts in 4 days

A spectacular display of 10,000 fireworks over the Kitami River! Experience the heart of a Japanese summer with traditional arts and breathtaking light shows.

Aug 11

Don't miss the massive 500m-wide fireworks! This premier Tohoku event features 10,000 shells and stunning water fireworks over the Kitakami River.

Aug 16

Join the Tono Hop Harvest Festival 2026 in Iwate. Experience the joy of harvesting hops and connecting with the rhythm of nature. A perfect way to experience traditional Japanese agricultural culture and beautiful summer landscapes.

Aug 22 – Aug 23

Catch up on the latest Tohoku educational travel trends in Osaka! Learn about specific disaster prevention and SDGs programs through presentations and direct consultations with regional representatives.

Sep 4

Experience the vibrant energy of Ninohe Matsuri. Immerse yourself in a traditional Japanese summer festival and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Iwate.

Sep 5

Experience the vibrant energy and deep-rooted traditions of Otsuchi's most spirited local festival. Don't miss this chance to feel the heart of Japan!

Sep 6

Experience the grandeur of the Fujiwara clan through traditional rituals and performances at the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Chuson-ji and Motsu-ji. A perfect way to connect with Japan's spiritual history and autumn beauty.

Oct 20

A rare festival to enjoy the diverse folk arts of Shizukuishi. Witness the powerful Nishine Nenbutsu Kenbu and immerse yourself in a beautiful moment of Japanese history and culture.

Nov 22

日本三大奇祭の一つ、黒石寺蘇民祭。炎の中で繰り広げられる蘇民袋争奪戦の熱狂は一生の思い出に！

Jan 7, 2027

Experience the dramatic Donton-sai fire festival and the traditional Hadakamari procession at Morioka Hachiman-gu. A must-see winter tradition in Iwate.

Jan 15, 2027

A special winter festival at Mokeiji Temple featuring dramatic torchlight processions and the elegant Ennen-no-mai dance.

Jan 20, 2027

A 300-year-old Iwate tradition featuring grand floats and glowing lanterns. Experience the breathtaking music and magical night scenery of the Hidaka Hibō Matsuri.

Jan 22, 2027

A high-energy water festival! Experience the thrill of the Daito Ohara Mizukake Matsuri to enjoy traditional purification and a refreshing Japanese summer.

Feb 11, 2027

Witness the intense battle for the Somin-bukuro bag on March 17 at Saijamine Shrine. Be sure to dress warmly to experience this powerful traditional festival.

Mar 17, 2027

Experience the rhythmic ironware drums and charming floats of a traditional Japanese spring festival in Iwate. A perfect way to witness local history and culture.

Mar 31, 2027

Don't miss the Minamoto no Yoshitsune procession! Experience the beauty of the Heian era amidst the stunning landscapes of Chuson-ji and Motsu-ji in Hiraizumi.

May 1, 2027