Guide
The Hirosaki Neputa Festival is a prestigious traditional event held in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, and is designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. It is celebrated as one of the "Four Great Festivals of Hirosaki," alongside the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival, the Hirosaki Castle Chrysanthemum and Autumn Colors Festival, and the Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival. The highlight of this festival is the magnificent "Ogi-neputa" (fan-shaped floats) and "Kumi-neputa" (figure-shaped floats) adorned with intricate warrior paintings. Local residents pull these massive, glowing floats through the streets to the powerful rhythmic chants of "Ya-ya-do!" This tradition originated from the desire to drive away sleepiness during the summer farming season and to ward off misfortune.
The true magic of this festival lies in the sight of colorful, glowing lanterns illuminating the dark streets. During the festival period, the entire city is charged with an electric energy as approximately 80 floats parade through the streets. The large-scale fan-shaped floats, featuring detailed warrior art, are particularly mesmerizing due to their sheer scale and artistic presence. You must experience the "Neputa Hayashi"—the traditional music of drums and flutes—which creates a high-energy atmosphere alongside the spirited shouts of the participants. The sight of these massive floats moving through the city to the beat of heavy drums is a quintessential symbol of a Japanese summer.
The festival takes place annually for seven days from August 1st to August 7th. Please note that the parade routes and schedules vary depending on the date.
The main parades take place in the central areas of Hirosaki City (including Dotemachi, Station Front, and Chuo-dori).
To feel the full impact of the floats, viewing from the roadside along the parade route is the best option. Since the routes change between the "Dotemachi Course" and the "Station Front Course," we recommend checking the specific route for your chosen date in advance. Also, be aware that on the final day (August 7), the parade starts much earlier in the morning compared to other days. Immerse yourself in the local energy and experience Japanese culture firsthand!