Guide
Maebashi Tanabata Matsuri is one of the most significant traditional Tanabata festivals in Northern Kanto, held in the heart of Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture. Since its full-scale establishment in 1951, it has become one of the "Three Great Festivals of Maebashi," alongside the Maebashi Hatsuichi and Maebashi Matsuri. The city comes alive with colorful hanging decorations and a vibrant mix of traditional bamboo ornaments and modern festivities.
The main attraction is the breathtaking sight of countless colorful Tanabata decorations hanging throughout the streets. Beyond the traditional bamboo ornaments, the festival often features decoration contests, creating a visually stunning landscape. During the event, numerous food stalls (yatai) line the shopping districts, offering a wide variety of local delicacies. For a truly authentic experience, we recommend wearing a Yukata (casual summer kimono) to soak up the festive atmosphere among the lively crowds.
The event will be held on July 10, 2027. Typically, the festival takes place over four days, starting from the Thursday following the first Monday of July.
The festival spans the central Maebashi city area, including the Maebashi Central Shopping District, Maebashi Central Event Plaza, and the Baba-gawa Street area.
The festival reaches its peak energy from evening to night. The atmosphere becomes most magical after sunset when the lights illuminate the decorations and the food stalls are in full swing. Walking through the shopping district to enjoy local street food while admiring the displays is highly recommended. Please note that the area becomes very crowded, so using public transportation is the best way to travel.