Kanto Matsuri

A Grand Panorama of Light and Skill Coloring Akita’s Summer Nights

2025/08/02 - 2025/08/05

Every August, the night sky of Akita City is illuminated by countless swaying lanterns during the Kanto Matsuri. Known as one of the three great festivals of Tohoku, this event features over 250 giant kanto poles filling the streets, attracting more than a million visitors who come to witness its enchanting spectacle. For those who want to experience the power of Japanese tradition, the thrill of a summer festival, or capture unforgettable memories, the Kanto Matsuri is a sensory experience that delights all five senses.

The festival is held annually from August 3rd to 6th in central Akita City. It is a summer festival where strength, skill, and community spirit come together as one, representing the very best of Japanese matsuri culture.

Main Attractions

Kanto Myogi (Kanto Performance)

The main highlight of the festival is the “Kanto Myogi.” Performers balance kanto—bamboo poles up to 12 meters long and weighing over 50 kilograms, adorned with up to 46 lanterns—on their foreheads, shoulders, hips, and palms. When more than 250 teams raise their kanto all at once, the night sky is filled with the golden glow of what looks like swaying rice ears, accompanied by the rhythm of taiko drums and flutes, and the shouts of “Dokkoisho! Dokkoisho!”

Key Events

At night, the main street becomes a river of light as all the kanto are raised together. During the day, visitors can try balancing a mini kanto, enjoy performance demonstrations, watch local arts parades, cultural exhibitions, and the finals of the skill competition, with plenty of interactive events for everyone.

Costumes and Decorations

Performers wear simple yet stylish happi coats, white headbands, and sashes. The kanto are decorated with family crests and auspicious motifs, and the warm glow of the lanterns lights up the night streets. Food stalls and banners line the parade route, and the smiles and excitement of the crowd bring the festival to life.

Traditional Food and Drink

Festival stalls offer Akita specialties like kiritanpo (grilled rice sticks), yakitori, Inaniwa udon, shaved ice, and dango—classic summer festival treats. The aroma of charcoal, soy sauce, and freshly grilled food drifts on the night breeze, and enjoying local sake while watching the performances is a unique pleasure of the Kanto Matsuri.

Cultural and Historical Background

The Kanto Matsuri traces its origins back about 270 years to the Neburi Nagashi ritual, which was held to ward off summer misfortune and pray for a bountiful harvest. The kanto, shaped like rice ears, are symbols of wishes for abundance. Over time, the event evolved from a Shinto ritual to a citizen-participation festival, and is now designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset, symbolizing Akita’s pride and community spirit.

For the people of Akita, it is a beloved summer tradition passed down through generations—a special four days when light, music, skill, and heart come together as one.

Participant Voices

I came from Tokyo with friends. I was amazed by the performers’ skills and even tried the mini kanto challenge! It was much harder than I expected. Eating local food and cheering with the crowd made it a night I’ll never forget.

Fun Facts

The largest kanto are 12 meters long, weigh over 50 kg, and carry 46 lanterns.
During the festival, more than 10,000 lanterns are lit each night.
The word “kanto” refers to “rice ears” and symbolizes prayers for a good harvest.