Guida
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. Originally started during the Edo period as a ritual to pray for a bountiful harvest, the festival has evolved from stationary 'decoration mountains' to the dynamic 'carrying mountains' seen today, where massive, ornate floats are paraded through the streets.
The main attraction is the procession of the magnificent, highly decorated floats. The festival offers two distinct atmospheres across its two main days.
During the Yoimatsuri (Eve Festival), you can enjoy a magical atmosphere with illuminated floats parading through the dark night, accompanied by traditional dances like Torimai and local music performances. During the Honmatsuri (Main Festival), nine massive floats move powerfully through the town to the rhythmic beat of traditional music, creating an overwhelming spectacle. You may even witness the fusion of tradition and modern energy if the Kurihara Yosakoi Festival coincides with the event.
The festival is held annually on the Saturday and Sunday of late July.
The event takes place around Baba-dori in Kurikoma Igasaki, Kurihara City, Miyagi.
The festival offers both daytime energy and nighttime excitement. The illuminated floats at night are particularly beautiful and perfect for photography. As temperatures can drop in the evening, we recommend preparing accordingly.