Tohoku Summer Festivals 2026: Lanterns and Legends with Aomori, Akita, and Iwate
Tradition and Celebration in Aomori, Akita, & Iwate
Experience Aomori’s world-famous Nebuta Festival, Local Traditions, and Scenic Highlights
Journey through the enchanting Tohoku region of northern Japan and immerse yourself in the rich traditions, stunning landscapes, and vibrant festivals that define this lesser-explored destination. Tohoku is especially renowned for its summer matsuri, including the spectacular Aomori Nebuta Festival, where illuminated floats and rhythmic taiko drums create an unforgettable atmosphere. Experience the dynamic Hachinohe Sansha Taisai Festival with its vibrant parades and the traditional Hanawa Bayashi Festival, where you can participate in festival stalls, drums, and dances. This tour offers a taste of Tohoku’s unique culture with hands-on activities like Nebuta lantern-making, visits to historic sites, breathtaking natural beauty, delightful local cuisine, and exclusive access to the region’s most iconic celebrations.
A glimpse into the grandeur of tradition – the midday parade of the Hanawa Bayashi in Kazuno City, where luxurious floats adorned with lacquer and gold dust shine under the summer sun.
As night falls, the Hachinohe Sansha Taisai floats come alive with mesmerizing colors, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and vibrancy of one of Tohoku’s most celebrated festivals.
What is Matsuri?
Matsuri is the Japanese word for “festival,” referring to a wide variety of traditional celebrations held throughout the year to honor local deities, mark seasonal changes, or celebrate historical and cultural heritage. These festivals are deeply rooted in Japan’s Shinto and Buddhist traditions, with many centered around shrines or temples. Each matsuri is unique to its region, featuring processions, performances, and rituals that highlight the community’s distinct culture and history.
The mighty clash of legend comes to life at the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, where the vivid hues of a red-faced demon and samurai warrior illuminate the night sky with electrifying energy.
What is Natsu Matsuri?
Natsu Matsuri, or summer festivals, are some of the most vibrant and exciting events in Japan, celebrated with dazzling fireworks, colorful yukata (summer kimonos), and a festive atmosphere. These festivals often include traditional dances, taiko drum performances, and spectacular parades featuring elaborately decorated floats or lanterns. Summer festivals bring communities together and are a highlight of Japan’s cultural calendar, offering visitors an unforgettable experience of the country’s joyous summer spirit.
Embark on a Magical Summer Festival Adventure
Tohoku Summer Festivals
Tour Details
9 NIGHTS / 10 DAYS IN JAPAN
Click here to see your Tohoku Summer Festival Experience
Day 0 – July 26 (Sunday): Honolulu – Tokyo
- Begin your journey with excitement as you meet your fellow travelers at Honolulu Airport. Relax before your flight to Japan with Japan Airlines (JAL), where your cultural adventure awaits.
Day 1 – July 27 (Monday): Tokyo Arrival
- Arrive in bustling Tokyo and settle into your hotel in Shinagawa. Enjoy the filling hotel dinner buffet and wind down to prepare for the journey ahead.
Day 2 – July 28 (Tuesday): Highlights in Aomori
- Start your day with a flight to Aomori, then feast on a delicious sushi lunch set. Head to Nebuta Museum “Wa Rasse” and step immerse yourself in the history of Nebuta. Discover local specialties and find your perfect omiyage while shopping at A-Factory.
Day 3 – July 29 (Wednesday): Free Day!
- Full free day in Aomori city at your own pace. Shop, dine, or enjoy the sights. Ask us for the suggestions!
Day 4: – July 30 (Thursday): Soul of Tsugaru: Sake and Music
- Hop on your bus and head to Kuroishi Cityto view unique rice paddy art. Make your own nebuta lanterns, then enjoy a special sake lecture and tasting experience. Move to Tsugaru-Clan Neputa Village and listen to the soul-stirring Tsugaru Shamisen performance.
Day 5 – July 31 (Friday): Hidden Gems in Iwate
- Visit the Towada Art Center, then head to the Kuji Amber Center to marvel at natural works of art. Spend your evening in Ryusendo, the region’s famous, vast limestone cave. Check into your hotel as the peaceful calls of evening cicadas welcome you to your rest.
Day 6 – August 1 (Saturday): Morioka Adventure
- Board the Miyako Umineko Maru and cruise along the stunning Jodogahama coastline in Miyako Bay. Enjoy local food and shopping at Michi-no-eki Miyako. Rest at your hotel before experiencing your first evening matsuri: the Morioka Sansa Odori Festival, home to the world’s largest taiko drum parade.
Day 7 – August 2 (Sunday): Hachinohe Festivities
- Browse specialty Nanbu ironware, then try the area’s famous Wanko Soba and see how many bowls you can eat! Wander through the scenic beauty of Oirase Gorge before immersing yourself in the lively Hachinohe Sansha Taisai, where illuminated floats, colorful costumes, and festive music light up the night.
Day 8 – August 3 (Monday): Sake and Nebuta in Aomori
- Browse and sample fresh seafood and local specialties at Hasshoku Center. This evening, move to Aomori City for the renowned Aomori Nebuta Festival, one of the largest summer matsuri. Giant, illuminated floats parading through the streets, plus traditional music and dynamic lines of dancers, create a truly unforgettable night.
Day 9 – August 4 (Monday): Lantern Festival in Akita
- Move to Akita City to have a hands-on experience at the Hanawabayashi Festival, trying the actual drums and dances. Tonight, bask in the Akita Kanto Festival and witness a breathtaking display of ancient tradition, as performers lift dozens of lanterns on bamboo poles, their skill and strength illuminating the night.
Day 10 – August 5 (Monday): Farewell & Return
- Harvest and snack on juicy, fresh fruit at a local orchard. Move to the airport and board your flight back to Honolulu via Tokyo, carrying the vibrant spirit of Tohoku’s festivals with you.
Celebrate the magic of summer in Japan with our exclusive Tohoku Summer Festivals Tour! From Aomori’s Nebuta Museum to the glowing floats of the Nebuta Festival, this journey offers a perfect mix of vibrant culture, scenic beauty, and hands-on traditions. Let us handle the details while you soak in the unforgettable experiences.
This all-inclusive tour takes care of every detail so you can enjoy your adventure stress-free.
Hassle-free travel with HIS Hawaii awaits you on this intimate Tohoku Summer Festival Tour. With our seasoned local English-speaking guide and your Honolulu-based tour leader by your side, you’ll experience seamless service from start to finish. From personalized consultations to expert guidance during the tour, and support all the way home, we’ll take care of every detail so you can focus on enjoying the journey. Let us show you the true HIS difference!
・Roundtrip Flights (Honolulu – Haneda – Misawa)・Comfortable accommodations・Daily breakfast, lunches, and dinners・Guided tours by local experts・All festival access and reserved seating・Hands-on cultural experiences
Pricing
Full Package
Land Package
Single Supplement
$6,390.00
$5,290.00 **
$750.00
**international and domestic airfare not included
**customer must provide flight details to travel consultant for confirmation
Early-booking Special Offer:
SAVE $100 by being one of the first ten participants!
The Sights and Activities
Above: The serene beauty of Oirase Keiryu in Aomori, where lush greenery and a gushing stream create a tranquil escape. Below: The mesmerizing blue waters inside Ryusendo Cave in Iwate, a hidden gem tucked away beneath the earth’s surface. (Click on the photo for more info.)
Nebuta lantern making – a hands-on experience where you’ll craft your own piece of art, as shown here. This unique experience goes beyond the festival itself, offering a deeper connection to the tradition. (Click on the photo for more info.)
Above: Wanko soba noodles – a Morioka specialty that offers a fun and flavorful dining experience. Below: Kiritanpo by the fire – a local Akita delicacy, grilled to perfection. These are just a few of the regional cuisines we’ll indulge in on the Tohoku Summer Festivals Tour! (Click on the photo for more info.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is included in the tour price?
The tour price includes:
• Roundtrip airfare from Honolulu to Japan.
• Accommodations in centrally located hotels.
• Daily breakfast, select lunches, and dinners.
• All festival entry fees and reserved seating.
• Private transportation for all scheduled activities.
• Hands-on cultural experiences such as Nebuta lantern-making.
• Services of a local English-speaking guide and Honolulu-based tour leader.
2. What is not included in the tour price?
The tour price does not include:
• Travel insurance (highly recommended).
• Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and snacks.
• Meals not specified in the itinerary.
3. How many people will be in the group?
This tour will have up to 30 participants maximum to ensure a comfortable and personalized experience.
4. Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, this tour is designed to accommodate travelers of all ages. All activities are optional and you can always skip a destination if you’d like. If you need special arrangements, such as a wheelchair, please let us know in advance.
5. What festivals will we experience on this tour?
There are four main festivals featured on this tour: the Hanawabayashi Festival in Akita Prefecture, known for some of the best music of any Japanese matsuri, the Hachinohe Sansa Taisai in Aomori Prefecture, featuring spectacular floats and shrines, the Kanto Matsuri in Akita, known for bright lanterns held aloft on giant poles, and the Neputa Festival of Aomori City, called one of the three “Great Festivals” in the entire Tohoku region and renowned as one of Japan’s most famous summer splendors.
6. What should I pack for the trip?
We recommend packing:
• Comfortable clothing for summer weather, including lightweight layers for cooler evenings.
• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
• Travel-size toiletries.
• A small daypack for daily activities.
7. Will there be free time during the tour?
Yes, there will be free time built into the schedule for you to explore, relax, or enjoy optional activities at your own pace.
8. Are there any dietary accommodations?
We will do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions if notified in advance. Please inform us of your requirements during the booking process.
9. Will I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is not included but is highly recommended to cover unforeseen circumstances, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.
10. How do I book this tour?
Booking is easy! Contact us at 808-922-2211, visit our office at the Ala Moana Center, or contact us through the link at the bottom of this page.
TOHOKU SUMMER FESTIVALS
JULY 26 – AUGUST 05, 2025
