Guide
The Tottori Shan Shan Matsuri is a beloved local event and a quintessential summer tradition in Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture. Its most iconic feature is the massive-scale umbrella dance, which has been officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's largest. The sight of thousands of dancers dressed in vivid, colorful costumes, swinging their umbrellas in unison while the rhythmic chime of bells echoes through the streets, is a truly spectacular spectacle unique to this festival.
The name "Shan Shan" is derived from two sources: the sound of hot spring water bubbling (shanshan) in the local city center, and the rhythmic "shan shan" sound of the bells. Originally, the "Inaba Umbrella Dance" was a more vigorous, male-centric dance, but it was later adapted into the current accessible and friendly style so that people of all ages and genders could enjoy it.
The roots of this festival trace back to the "Tottori Festival" held in 1961. It began as a parade-style event held alongside the festivals of Hijiri Shrine and Omori Shrine. In 1965, the first official "Shan Shan Matsuri" was held in its current form.
While the original "Inaba Umbrella Dance" involved swinging large umbrellas like swords in a powerful display, the size and movement of the umbrellas were adjusted to make it easier for women and children to participate. Today, the umbrellas are a manageable 1.2 meters long and 0.8 meters in diameter, allowing the local community to participate together in a shared cultural experience.
The absolute highlight of the festival is the "Massive Umbrella Dance," where thousands of people dance simultaneously. With approximately 100 groups and about 4,000 participants, the scale is among the largest in the world, turning the entire city into a sea of colorful umbrellas. The synchronized movement of the umbrellas and the rhythmic bell sounds provide a feast for both the eyes and ears, conveying the intense energy of a Japanese festival.
In recent years, the festival has continued to evolve, featuring not only the traditional "Kinanse" dance but also modern versions of the dance, showcasing a blend of tradition and contemporary flair.
The festival is held annually in mid-August. The main massive umbrella dance typically begins around 15:00 (3:00 PM). Since it takes place during the peak of summer heat, we recommend watching from the afternoon through the evening to see the colorful umbrellas fill the streets as the sun sets and the festival atmosphere intensifies.
As a visitor, the best way to enjoy the festival is by watching the parades held throughout the city streets. You can observe the dancers up close and feel the deep connection to local Japanese culture through the sound of the bells. In some areas, you may even encounter opportunities to learn the traditional dance movements.
The festival takes place in the urban areas of Tottori City, including the vicinity of Tottori Station and historical sites like Hijiri Shrine and Omori Shrine. During the festival, local shops and restaurants are incredibly lively, offering a great chance to enjoy local food alongside the festivities.
Cash is the primary method of payment at food stalls and local shops around the venue. While some shops may accept credit cards, it is highly recommended to carry plenty of cash (coins and 1,000 yen notes) for a smoother experience.
Basic English support may be available at tourist information centers and major facilities, but full English service is not guaranteed at the festival sites. We recommend using translation apps or preparing basic phrases in advance.
No advance reservation is required to watch the umbrella dance. However, because hotels and restaurants in the area become extremely crowded during this period, it is highly recommended to book your accommodation and dining well in advance.
As the festival is held in August, expect very high temperatures and humidity. Please bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water/drinks to stay hydrated. We also recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, as you will likely be on your feet for a long time.
Photography is permitted, but please be mindful of the crowds and ensure you do not block the path of pedestrians. The use of tripods may be restricted depending on the density of the crowd.
Because the festival involves parades moving through city streets, there may be uneven surfaces and heavy crowds. If you are using a wheelchair, it is advisable to check the route and available viewing areas in advance.