Yamagata Hanagasa Festival

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Written by GOOD LUCK TRIP

This is one of the four major festivals of Tohoku. Lighting up the night in Yamagata is a splendid summer festival.
The vigorous cries of "Yasho, Makasho" and the stirring timbre of the taiko drums reverberate throughout the streets of the town. Gorgeously decorated floats at the head of the parade are followed by dancers in shiny costumes with straw hats to which red flowers have been attached. The Main Street of Yamagata City unfolds as a stage for group dancing.

The "Hanagasa Hat", symbol of the Hanagasa Festival
The "Hanagasa Hat", symbol of the Hanagasa Festival

Photos provided by: The Yamagata Prefectural Hanagasa Council

The Walk-In Corner

The Walk-In Corner is where the Circle Dance is held. Spectators, even newcomers, can join the parade here. Why not give it a try?
Location: At the end of the Parade Route, in front of Yamagata City Hall

Lots of Gourmet Food Stalls

The streets are lined with a lot of food stalls, so savoring the delicious cuisine of Yamagata is also highly recommended.

Video of Yamagata Hanagasa Festival

Basic information on Yamagata Hanagasa Festival

Address
Nanukamachi, Yamagata City, Yamagata
Access
About 10 minutes on foot from JR Yamagata Station
Tel
023-642-8753
Dates
Aug. 5 - Aug. 7, 2019
Hours
6:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Admission
Free (Paid seats available)
URL(English)
http://www.hanagasa.jp/en/