Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Akita Kanto Festival is a traditional festival held every summer in Akita City, Akita Prefecture, and is a representative summer festival said to have originated as a prayer for a good harvest and a memorial service for ancestors. Its main feature is the parade of performers through the town, hanging numerous round lanterns from bamboo poles (kanto), and swinging the lights, which resemble ears of rice. The "Kanto feats," in which performers skillfully balance the lanterns on their heads, shoulders, hips, and palms, simultaneously impress audiences with their strength and grace, captivating many tourists every year.
The Kanto Festival has great cultural value and has been designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan (the date and events are the same as usual). The spectacle of the lit lanterns decorating the city at night is not only photogenic, but also appealing in that it allows you to directly feel the passion and tradition of the region.
Highlights
- Kanto performance: Performances using various sizes of Kanto poles, with competitors competing in skillful performances. The balancing techniques of carrying the poles on the head, shoulders, and waist are very impressive.
- Beautiful night view: The sight of countless lanterns illuminating the cityscape at night is fantastic, and there are many spots for taking photos.
- Competitive and joint performances: Groups from each region show off their skills, and sometimes they collaborate to put on large-scale performances.
- Musical accompaniment and shouts: The musical accompaniment of drums and flutes, along with shouts (such as "Dokkoi" and "Wasshoi"), further enhance the festival atmosphere.
- Experience programs (when held): There are sometimes events and exhibitions where you can try out Kanto for a short time, and people of all ages can participate.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Akita Station on the JR Ou Main Line and Uetsu Main Line. The venue is within walking distance from Akita Station (usually about a 10-20 minute walk).
- Public transport: Traffic restrictions will be in place in the city centre during the event, so the most convenient way to get there is on foot from the station. City buses and special shuttles may also be operating, so please check official information in advance.
- Private car: There is very little parking available around the venue, and traffic restrictions and congestion may occur. We do not recommend coming by car. If you absolutely must use a car, please secure a parking space in advance and consider switching to public transportation.
- By air: It takes about 40 to 50 minutes by limousine bus from Akita Airport to Akita Station. If you are using the airport, please allow yourself plenty of time.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- If you are watching one performance: It will take about 1-2 hours, including securing a viewing spot and the actual performance.
- If you are touring multiple performances and venues: 2 to 4 hours. If you want to see the main performance in the evening and enjoy the surrounding food stalls and events, we recommend staying for about half a day.
- If you want to experience the entire festival thoroughly: Since there are events over multiple days during the festival, it would be a good idea to stay overnight if possible and enjoy the different performances each night as well as sightseeing in the surrounding area.
Nearby spots
- Senshu Park: A historic park near Akita Station. With castle ruins and walking trails, it's perfect for relaxing sightseeing.
- Akita Museum of Art: This museum houses works by local artists and modern and contemporary art. You can enjoy the art in peace and quiet.
- Neburi Nagashi Hall (Akita City Folk Performing Arts Heritage Museum): There are exhibits and explanations about Kanto and folk performing arts, and you can learn about the background of the festival.
- Kanto Hall and other experience facilities: There may be facilities offering historical exhibits and experiences during the festival (depending on the year).
- Local restaurants and food stalls: During the festival, food stalls and temporary stores will be set up, where you can enjoy Akita specialties (kiritanpo, Inaniwa udon, Hinai Jidori chicken, etc.).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The venue will be very crowded. We recommend reserving a spot early or using a paid reserved seat. Transportation on the way back will also be crowded, so please allow yourself plenty of time.
- Traffic restrictions: Traffic restrictions and road closures will be in place in the city center during the festival. Please avoid driving and check the official traffic information in advance.
- Heat precautions: The event will be held in the summer (mainly in August) and will be hot and humid. Please be sure to bring along drinks, a hat, cooling products, and other heatstroke prevention measures.
- In case of rain: In the event of bad weather (strong winds, heavy rain, etc.), the performance may be shortened or canceled. Please check the official information.
- Photography etiquette: Please be careful not to obstruct the view of the performers with flash or large lights during the performance. Please also observe basic etiquette, such as not blocking aisles and taking your trash with you so as not to inconvenience pedestrians and other spectators.
- Safety: Kanto uses burning lights, so please observe from a safe distance and do not get too close or touch the lanterns.
Before visiting, be sure to check the Akita Kanto Festival's official website and Akita City's tourist information for the latest schedule, access information, and paid seating information. Enjoy the excitement of the festival and the night view to your heart's content.
