Oshu Nambu Tekki Festival

Event Overview

Located in Mizusawa, Oshu City—the birthplace of Nambu Tekki—the Oshu Nambu Tekki Festival is a major annual event dedicated to celebrating the charm of traditional Japanese ironware. Nambu Tekki is highly acclaimed both in Japan and internationally for its exquisite artistry and practical durability. During this festival, you can find rare and high-quality items at incredible discounts of up to 40% off. The event features various exhibitions and hands-on programs that allow you to witness the incredible skills of master artisans up close. It is a vibrant celebration of preserving and passing down local traditions to the next generation.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The biggest draw of this festival is the special sale of Nambu Tekki. High-quality iron kettles (Tetsubin), cookware, and other items are offered at special prices, making it an ideal opportunity for those looking to purchase lifelong tools. Beyond shopping, the festival offers immersive programs to engage all your senses. For instance, the 'National Benkei Tetsugeta Tobashi Competition' is a high-energy, visually stunning event that draws crowds from across the country. Additionally, the Oshu Nambu Tekki Exhibition allows you to admire the intricate patterns and sculptural beauty of the ironware while learning about its history and manufacturing processes. Experience the depth of Japanese traditional culture through the hands of the masters.

Schedule

The festival will be held over two days from October 10 to 11, 2026. Please note that start times may vary by day.

• *October 10, 2026**: 10:00–16:00

Venue & Access

The event is held across two separate venues within Oshu City.

• *Venue 1**: Oshu City Casting Technology Exchange Center
• *Venue 2**: Oshu Traditional Industry Hall

[Access]

The venues are approximately a 15-minute walk from JR Mizusawa-Esashi Station. Access via public transportation is convenient. If traveling by car, we recommend checking local parking availability in advance.

Tips for Visitors

Preparation is key to making the most of your visit. First, the Nambu Tekki sales are extremely popular, and discounted items are expected to sell out quickly. If there is a specific item you want, we recommend arriving early. Second, various hands-on workshops (some with fees) are available. Some may require advance reservations, while others are on a first-come, first-served basis. These are rare opportunities to experience artisan techniques firsthand. While the atmosphere is traditional, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing and shoes for walking.

What to Bring & Etiquette

[What to Bring & Clothing]

As the event involves walking and potentially being outdoors, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. To safely transport your purchased ironware, it is useful to bring a large eco-bag and protective padding (such as a cloth or bubble wrap).

[Payment Methods]

Cash is the primary method of payment for most sales and workshops. Please check with individual booths regarding the availability of credit cards or electronic money.

[Reservations & Language Support]

We recommend checking the official website for details regarding workshop reservations. English support availability varies depending on the specific booth or program. Learning a few basic Japanese terms related to crafts may enhance your experience.