Noshiro Tanabata “Tenku-no-Fuyajou”

(能代七夕「天空の不夜城」)

Noshiro City, Akita Pref.

Over 100 Years Night See Tohoku

About the festival

Noshiro Tanabata “Tenku-no-Fuyajou” is a festival that began in 2013. However, the Noshiro region had a traditional summer Tanabata festival from the old days. It is said that people used to pull a castle-shaped lantern float (Toro) decorated with gigantic shachi (mythical animal with a head of a tiger and the body of a carp) all across the town. According to historical text, a Nagoya Castle-shaped lantern float was made more than 100 years ago during the Tempo era, and due to its popularity with citizens that this 17.6m tall Toro was paraded across town till dawn.

As a result of modernization, electrical wires were laid throughout the city limiting the height of the Toro. 7 to 8m tall floats were pulled in recent years, but the burying of electrical wires have allowed massive Toros to parade again. In 2013, a 17.6m tall giant Toro, named "Karoku", was carefully replicated based on old pictures and texts, reviving it after a whole century. In 2014, "Chikasue", a 24.1m high and tallest Toro in Japan was completed. These Toros among others parade the town on the day of the festival, bringing an exciting summer experience to Noshiro. 

053 Reh Noshiro Tanabata Tenku No Fuyajou

Things to do

1. Parade through the city with the massive Toro and excited locals

053 Re1 1 Noshiro Tanabata Tenku No Fuyajou
053 Re1 2 Noshiro Tanabata Tenku No Fuyajou

The biggest highlight of this festival are the 24.1m and 17.6m tall two massive castle-shaped lanterns. The citizens parade through town along with a few other floats, playing festival chants with taiko drums and flutes. We wish for you to experience this unique Japanese summer festival, while viewing these delicately built Toros and mingling with the local people.

Information (基本情報)

  • Festival Dates Aug 3rd & 4th, 2019
    *Procession may be cancelled due to strong winds (it will not be rescheduled)
  • Place From Noshiro City Office to Torimachi (via route 101)
  • General Participation Mostly for viewing only
    *You may participate in the pulling of the Toro with prior reservation. (Application will close as soon as positions are filled)
  • International Reception and Info. Tourist pamphlets (English, Chinese, and traditional Chinese) made available by Noshiro City
  • Restrooms Temporary toilets available in two locations
  • Contact Noshiro Tanabata “Tenku-no-Fuyajou” Council (sector of Noshiro Chamber of Commerce)
    0185-52-6344

Rules & Manners(参加のルール&マナー)

Prior reservation required for participating in pulling the Toro. Joining the procession on the day of the event is prohibited.
Please view from the sidewalk without obstructing the parade. You may take pictures from up-close during the "fureai time" held mid-procession.

Access Map (アクセスと地図)

Access to Noshiro City 

[nearest station]
Noshiro Station, JR Gono Line

Festival Location
From Noshiro City Office to Torimachi (via route 101)
*Approximately 15 min walk from Noshiro Station
*Fixed route buses are not available on the day of the festival due to traffic control

Yuki Kishimoto
Writer
Born in Ishikawa. Planner & editor. Loves tofu, sake & soccer.

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