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Nebuta House Wa Rasse (Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse is a museum where you can experience the charm of the Aomori Nebuta Festival all year round. Opened in 2011, it displays large nebuta floats that were actually paraded in the festival, and provides an easy-to-understand introduction to the festival culture, including the techniques of nebuta artists and the musicians and dancers. A major feature of the museum is the way the nebuta move with the use of light and sound, and the live music and video footage give you a real sense of the festival. It is popular as a place where tourists can experience the power of the nebuta floats while avoiding the crowds of the main festival.
Highlights
- Permanent exhibition of large Nebuta: You can get up close and personal with the Nebuta that was actually used in the festival. You can observe the detailed coloring, the way the Japanese paper is pasted, the frame, and other production techniques.
- Nebuta Parade Reenactment Stage: A sound and light show is held regularly, allowing you to experience the atmosphere of a festival (with live performances and shouts).
- Production process exhibition: Learn about the production process and craftsmanship through videos of Nebuta makers at work and displays of their tools.
- Experience corner: Try on the dancer costumes, try on some basic musical instruments, and try being a bearer (Events may change depending on the season and events).
- Photo spots and large panels: There are many photogenic areas and spots where you can take commemorative photos with the Nebuta in the background.
- Museum Shop and Cafe: A shop selling Nebuta-related souvenirs, local sweets, and light meals, as well as a rest area.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Aomori Station (right outside the east exit). It is a very convenient location, just a 1-3 minute walk from the station.
- By Shinkansen: Take the conventional line (Aoimori Railway or JR Ou Main Line) from Shin-Aomori Station to Aomori Station. The ride time will vary depending on the line and connections, but it will generally take around 10 to 20 minutes.
- From the airport: From Aomori Airport, it is convenient to take the airport limousine bus to Aomori Station (approximately 30-40 minutes).
- Car/Taxi: As this is in the center of Aomori city, please use a nearby paid parking lot. Travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions around the station.
- Note: If you are visiting as a tourist, the easiest way to get there is to leave Aomori Station and walk there.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Basic tour: 30 minutes to 1 hour (if viewing all exhibits, videos, and photo spots).
- If you want to enjoy the show thoroughly and experience it: 1-2 hours (it may take longer depending on the timing of workshops, costume fittings, and shows).
- For families and photography enthusiasts, we recommend planning your trip with ample time.
Nearby spots
- A-FACTORY: A souvenir shop in front of Aomori Station. Apple-related products and local gourmet food are available (within walking distance).
- Aspam, the bay area around A-FACTORY: The Aomori Bay Area is perfect for a stroll, with observation decks, shops, and restaurants.
- Aomori Prefectural Tourism and Products Center: Convenient for obtaining local specialties and tourist information.
- Sannai-Maruyama Site: A large Jomon period site. Approximately 20-30 minutes by car (also accessible by public transport).
- Nebuta Festival (every August): If you want to experience the real Nebuta, it's best to visit during the festival in August (but it will be crowded).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: During the Nebuta Festival in August, the entire city becomes extremely crowded. Visitors to Wa Rasse also increase, so if you want to take your time looking around, consider visiting early in the morning or just before closing time.
- Photography etiquette: While photography is permitted in many exhibits, please be aware of flash photography and restricted areas. Touching exhibits is prohibited.
- Safety: The large Nebuta floats are delicate, so please be careful not to run near the exhibits and keep an eye on children.
- Seasonal Note: In winter, snowfall and frozen roads can occur even in Aomori City, making travel time longer. Please be sure to dress warmly and plan your trip with ample time.
- Opening hours and fees: Exhibition admission fees, opening hours, and event schedules are subject to change. Please check the official website or facility for the latest information before visiting.
- Barrier-free access: The building is relatively barrier-free (elevators available, etc.), but it is best to check in advance for details.
For reference/confirmation: Please check the Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse official website for the latest opening hours, admission fees, and event schedule.
