Guide
The Kurikoma Dashi Matsuri is a traditional summer festival with over 300 years of history, held in the Kurikoma Igasaki district of Kurihara City, Miyagi Prefecture. The festival originated during the Edo period as a ritual to pray for a bountiful harvest. Originally, the floats were stationary decorations, but over time, they evolved into 'Katsugi-yama'—elaborate floats carried on the shoulders of locals. Today, it is a high-energy event featuring magnificent, heavily decorated floats parading through the town.
The main draw of this festival is the procession of the exquisitely decorated floats. The festival offers two distinct atmospheres during the Yoimatsuri (Eve Festival) and Honmatsuri (Main Festival).
During the Yoimatsuri, you can enjoy a magical and lively atmosphere with illuminated floats parading through the dark night. You can also witness traditional local arts such as Torimai (bird dances), Teodori (hand dances), and competitive Ohayashi (musical performances). In contrast, the Honmatsuri features nine grand floats parading powerfully through the streets accompanied by rhythmic music. The synchronization of the traditional music and the powerful movement of the floats is truly breathtaking. Occasionally, the Kurihara Yosakoi festival is also held, creating a unique fusion of tradition and modern energy.
The festival is held annually on the last Saturday and Sunday of July.
The event takes place around the Baba-dori area in Kurikoma Igasaki, Kurihara City, Miyagi.
You can enjoy both the daytime energy and the nighttime excitement of the Kurikoma Dashi Matsuri. The illuminated floats during the night parade are particularly beautiful and offer incredible photo opportunities. As temperatures can drop at night, we recommend preparing for the evening air.