Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Sendai Tanabata Festival is one of the Tohoku region's most famous summer festivals, held every year in early August (generally from August 6th to 8th) in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture. Its origins date back to the Edo period, and it was based on the events of the Sendai domain and the customs of the common people. It was only in modern times that the large-scale street decorations we see today took on their current form, and it was revived and developed after the war, becoming a festival known nationwide.
The biggest feature of the festival is the colorful Tanabata decorations, including the long, gorgeous "streamers." Decorations of all sizes are hung up in the shopping district and Civic Area, creating a spectacular sight that combines the beauty of traditional handicrafts with the scale of a large shopping district. There are also interactive elements, such as writing wishes on strips of paper and hanging them up, making it popular with families and tourists alike.
Highlights
- Large group of streamers:The long streamers line the wide arcades and streets. Their beautiful colors and movements make them a popular photo spot.
- Unique decorations in each shopping district:Each shopping street, such as Ichibancho, Chuo-dori, and in front of the station, competes with each other to decorate, with creative designs and themes.
- Traditional craft exhibitions and hands-on craft experiences:Workshops on making origami cranes and paper decorations, as well as exhibitions by local artisans, are sometimes held (this varies from year to year).
- Night illumination:The illuminated decorations look different after dusk than they do during the day, so we recommend visiting during the cooler hours.
- Parade Events:Some years feature stage events, parades, and traditional performing arts. Please check the official program in advance.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station:JR Sendai Station (within walking distance of the main venue). It is convenient to walk from Sendai Station towards Ichibancho and Chuo Street.
- subway:The easiest way to get there is by public transportation: Get off at Sendai Station on the Sendai City Subway Namboku Line.
- From the airport:It takes about 25 to 30 minutes to Sendai Station on the Sendai Airport Access Line (Sendai Airport Access Railway) (travel time may vary depending on transfers).
- bus:Many city buses operate from in front of Sendai Station, and in some years special buses and shuttles are also available.
- Car/Parking:We recommend using public transportation as traffic restrictions, road closures, and parking shortages are expected around the venue. If you are coming by car, please secure a parking space early or use a large parking lot in the vicinity.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short trip (to see the highlights): about 1-2 hours
- Viewing the exhibits thoroughly + enjoying meals and events: 3-4 hours
- If you want to fully enjoy the tour including photography and other activities: Half a day (4 hours or more)
The time required will vary depending on the level of crowds and the time of day you visit (daytime, evening, night). Since it is cooler at night and the area tends to be even more crowded, we recommend visiting between the morning and early afternoon if you want to avoid the crowds.
Nearby spots
- Zuihoden:The mausoleum of Date Masamune. Recommended for historical walks (accessible from Sendai Station).
- Sendai Castle (Aoba Castle) ruins:An observation spot with a panoramic view of the city. You can also enjoy a stroll around the castle ruins.
- Sendai City Museum and Historical Museum:A facility where you can learn about the history of the region.
- Jozenji-dori and Sendai Mediatheque:This area is perfect for strolling around during the festival, as it features tree-lined streets and modern architecture.
- Ichibancho/Kokubuncho:A downtown area packed with shopping and restaurants. Convenient for finding food and souvenirs between festivals.
Things to be aware of (crowding, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion:During this period, the streets will be extremely crowded. Movement will be particularly restricted in the evenings and at night, and on weekends, so please allow ample travel time and meeting times. Accommodations tend to fill up quickly, so we recommend making reservations in advance.
- Heatstroke prevention measures:The festival is held in midsummer in August. Please bring a hat, parasol, water, and cooling products, and take frequent breaks. It is a good idea to check the location of food stalls and rest areas in advance.
- Considerations for decoration:The decorations are important traditions and works of art. Please observe proper etiquette by not touching or climbing on them, and not removing the paper strips without permission.
- photo shoot:Photography is generally welcome, but please be considerate and ask for permission before taking close-up photos of people, and check with the organizers before live streaming or commercial use.
- Traffic Controls and Detours:During the festival, pedestrian zones and road closures will be in place. If you are planning to drive or take someone to or from work, please check the latest traffic regulations in advance.
- Safety management:It can be dangerous under large decorations and temporary facilities during strong winds. Please check official announcements for information on whether the festival will be held during typhoons and other severe weather.
- Garbage/Sorting:There may be a limited number of trash cans around the venue. Please cooperate by taking your trash home with you, using designated trash cans, and separating your trash.
Reference: Before visiting, be sure to check the official websites of Sendai City and the Sendai Tanabata Festival for the current year's schedule, event information, traffic restrictions, and precautions (such as measures against typhoons and new infectious diseases).
