The Akita Kanto Festival is a premier traditional Japanese festival held in Akita City from August 3rd to 6th. The 'Kanto' refers to long bamboo poles adorned with numerous lanterns, designed to look like ears of rice. This ritual is a prayer for a bountiful harvest and good health. Recognized as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, it is celebrated as one of the three great festivals of the Tohoku region.
Highlights & How to Enjoy
The main attraction is the parade of 'Golden Rice Ears' appearing in the night streets. Over 250 Kanto poles, lit by thousands of lanterns, create a vibrant glow against the dark sky. Watch in awe as skilled performers balance these heavy poles on their foreheads, shoulders, waists, and even their lower backs. You can also enjoy elegant performances involving traditional paper umbrellas, fans, and even performers wearing single-tooth wooden clogs (geta). The powerful rhythm of the 'Kanto Hayashi' music adds intense energy to the atmosphere.
Schedule
The festival takes place over four days:
*August 3**: The opening day features the 'Gohei Watashi' ceremony at Hachiman Akita Shrine within Senshu Park to pray for safety during the event.
*August 4–6 (Daytime)**: The 'Kanto Taigi-kai' is held, showcasing beautiful displays of technical skill and precision.
*Nighttime Main Event**: The grand Kanto parade takes place on Kanto Odori (between Nichome Bridge and Sanno Crossroad). There are three main performances, concluding with the 'Kanto Shime' where the crowd and performers unite.
*August 7**: The festival concludes with the 'Gohei Nagashi' ceremony, where Kanto are floated down the Asahi River.
Venue & Access
The main venue is Kanto Odori (the stretch between Nichome Bridge and Sanno Crossroad) in Akita City.
*By Train**: The venue is approximately a 10-minute walk from the West Exit of Akita Station (JR Ou Main Line/Akita Shinkansen).
*By Bus**: From Akita Airport, take the limousine bus for about 50 minutes and alight at Hokuto Bank-mae or Kotsu Sha-mae.
*By Car**: Accessible via the Akita Expressway (Akita Minami IC or Akataka Chuo IC). Please note that heavy traffic and road closures are expected.
Tips for Visitors
The nighttime main event attracts huge crowds. Toward the end of the performances, there is a 'Fureai Kanto' session where you can actually touch the Kanto or try playing the drums. Additionally, the short candles used during the night performances are sometimes distributed as charms for safe childbirth. As this is an outdoor nighttime event, comfortable clothing is highly recommended.
Practical Information
*Clothing**: Since most viewing is outdoors at night, wear comfortable clothes and bring layers in case of temperature changes.
*Payment**: While specific details aren't listed, we recommend carrying cash for food stalls and local vendors.
*Reservations**: There is no specific information regarding reserved seating. Please check local updates for viewing-spot details.
*Etiquette**: For safety, certain areas are cordoned off with ropes. Please be mindful of other spectators and avoid blocking walkways.
