Every August, the city of Aomori is engulfed in the glow of giant illuminated floats and energetic chants. Known as one of Tohoku’s top three festivals, the Aomori Nebuta Festival(Matsuri) is a must-see event for international visitors. This article covers everything from the 2025 schedule and highlights to how to join the festival, access information, etiquette, and nearby attractions.
※Dashi: A mobile decorative float used in festivals. In Nebuta, these are enormous lantern floats in 3D form.
(Source:https://www.nippon.com/ja/guide-to-japan/gu019013/)
1. What Is the Aomori Nebuta Festival(Matsuri)?
The Aomori Nebuta Festival(Matsuri) is a traditional summer event held in Aomori City every August. With over 20,000 participants and more than 2 million spectators, it's one of Japan’s largest-scale festivals and has been designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property by the government. At night, vividly lit “Nebuta” floats parade through the streets, accompanied by the chant of “Rassera! Rassera!” from dancers known as Haneto.
This festival is interactive, allowing people not just to watch but also to join in, which makes it especially popular among tourists. In recent years, numerous tours from overseas have been organized, making it a globally recognized summer celebration.
※Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property: A designation by the Japanese government for valuable local traditions and folklore. The Nebuta Festival was designated in 1980.
※Haneto: Participants who dance and jump with the chant “Rassera!” during the festival. Anyone can join by wearing the traditional outfit.
2. What Is a Nebuta?
A Nebuta is a massive lantern float made of washi paper and wire, often depicting warriors, mythical figures, or historical characters. Some reach over 5 meters tall and 9 meters wide, boasting impressive scale and artistry. These are crafted over several months by skilled artisans.
Each Nebuta is sponsored by companies or organizations, making it a collaborative cultural project between businesses, local communities, and residents. Recently, LED lighting has been adopted, blending tradition with modern technology.
※Lantern (Tōrō): A decorated box-shaped lighting device with internal illumination. Used as the base of Nebuta floats.
3. Basic Info for Aomori Nebuta Festival
- Dates: Saturday, August 2 – Thursday, August 7, 2025
- Pre-Festival Night: Friday, August 1, 6:00–9:00 PM (at Aoi Umi Park)
- Location: Central Aomori City (Shinmachi Street, Heiwa Koen Street, Honcho Teramachi Street, etc.)
- Weather: Held rain or shine (schedule may change in severe weather)
- Aomori Station Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1eBioF3MahwEBhkR8
- Official Website: https://www.nebuta.jp
Paid reserved seats will be available for purchase from late June on the official website or at convenience store kiosks. Early booking is highly recommended for those who want to relax and watch the event from designated seating.
4. Highlights of the Aomori Nebuta Festival
- Nightly Nebuta Parade (Aug 2–6): Refer to the route map for details
- Participate as a Haneto: Join the dance and chants of “Rassera!”
- Pre-Festival Night: Featuring Miss Nebuta and traditional music performances
Final Day Fireworks and Floating Parade: Winning floats cruise on water, with fireworks lighting up the sky. Refer to the route map for details
During the day, you can visit Nebuta Rasseland, where floats are built. You can observe up-close, try on costumes, and enjoy music and drumming workshops—perfect for couples and families.
※Hayashi: Traditional festival music made up of taiko drums, flutes, and bells that brings rhythm and atmosphere to the parade.
5. History and Origins of the Aomori Nebuta Festival
The origin of the Aomori Nebuta Festival dates back to the Nara period. It evolved from ancient traditions like Tanabata and Nemuri-nagashi, where people would float lanterns down rivers to dispel fatigue, misfortune, or evil spirits. The word Nebuta likely comes from nemutai (sleepy), as a ritual to drive away sleepiness or laziness.
In the Edo period, carrying lanterns in parades became popular, forming the basis of the modern Nebuta style. Originally small handheld lanterns, the floats grew larger and more artistic over time. After WWII, electricity replaced wax and paper candles, enhancing safety and visual effects.
Over time, the festival became a key cultural and tourism event supported by citizens, government, and businesses. In 1958, the Miss Nebuta pageant began, and in 1980, the festival was designated a national cultural treasure, gaining worldwide recognition.
Other unique festivals in Aomori include Hirosaki’s Neputa and Goshogawara’s Tachineputa, each reflecting local flavor. Aomori’s Nebuta is known for its 3D grandeur, a symbolic part of Tsugaru culture.
Efforts to pass down float-making skills continue, with children’s Nebuta groups and citizen-led production teams actively involved. Experiencing the passion and craftsmanship firsthand is one of the festival’s biggest appeals.
6. Access Information
- Nearest Station: JR Aomori Station (about 10 minutes on foot)
- Shinkansen: From Shin-Aomori Station, transfer to the JR Ou Line (about 10 mins)
- By Car: About 15 mins from Aomori Chuo IC on the Tohoku Expressway (road closures during festival)
- Airport: About 35 minutes by limousine bus from Aomori Airport
Public transport is recommended due to road closures and bus route changes during the festival. Accommodations often fill up months in advance, so book early.
7. How to Enjoy the Aomori Nebuta Festival
Recommended Events and Dates:
- Pre-Festival (Aug 1): Stage shows, hayashi music, Miss Nebuta pageant
- Main Festival (Aug 2–6): Nebuta parades and Haneto dancing
- Final Day (Aug 7): Day parade, night marine float parade and fireworks
What to Wear:
- Light clothes (T-shirt, hat), comfortable shoes
If joining as a Haneto: special costume (rent/buy locally)
Haneto costumes are available at department stores, costume shops, and even convenience stores around Aomori Station. English guidance is often provided. Anyone in costume can join—no special registration or lottery needed.
What to Bring:
- Water, sunscreen, towel, rain gear, cash (for food stalls)
- Mobile battery, insect repellent, folding chair, etc.
8. Important Tips & Manners
Photography:
- Be mindful not to block other spectators or performers
- Tripods may be restricted during crowded times
Peak Time & Area:
- 7:00–8:00 PM is most crowded
- Especially near Shinmachi Street intersections
During Crowds:
- Carry small bags
- Decide meeting points in advance in case of separation
Other Tips:
- Drink responsibly
- Baby carriers are better than strollers
- Take your trash home and help keep the area clean
9. Nearby Attractions
Nebuta House Wa Rasse: Exhibit and experience center for Nebuta floats
- Aomori Museum of Art: Home to Chagall stage backdrops
Asamushi Onsen: Hot spring town about 30 mins by train
Sannai-Maruyama Site: Large-scale Jomon period ruins for history lovers
- A-FACTORY: Local cider brewery and gift shop featuring Aomori apples
Hakkoda Ropeway: Cool summer mountaintop views and nature walks
In Conclusion
The Aomori Nebuta Festival 2025 will be held from August 2 to 7, offering a six-day immersive experience for all. From the massive floats and dynamic Haneto dancers to the electric fusion of tradition and modernity, the festival promises unforgettable summer memories. Don’t miss the final marine parade and fireworks show—it's a spectacle like no other.
You can also enjoy local cuisine during the festival. Treat yourself to scallop miso grills, grilled squid, and senbei-jiru (rice cracker soup), and savor the flavors of Japanese summer with all five senses.
