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August 3, 2026 at 2:41 pm
Event date:
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August 6, 2026 at 2:42 pm
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Discover the magic of Akita this August. Experience the light. Feel the rhythm. Be part of the tradition.
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Contact Jasumo Now →The Akita Kanto Festival (秋田竿燈まつり) is one of Japan’s most dazzling and culturally rich summer festivals. Held annually in Akita City every August, this vibrant event showcases incredible performances where towering bamboo poles (known as Kanto) adorned with glowing lanterns are balanced by highly skilled participants. Dating back centuries, the festival is a traditional prayer for a bountiful harvest and stands proudly as one of the three great festivals of the Tohoku region.
What You’ll Experience at the Akita Kanto Festival
- Towering Lantern Displays Witness 12-meter-tall bamboo poles, each decorated with 46 lanterns, swaying gracefully through the night, symbolizing stalks of rice.
- Stunning Feats of Strength and Balance Performers expertly balance these heavy poles on their palms, shoulders, foreheads, and even lower backs—showcasing unmatched precision and control.
- An Enchanting Nighttime Atmosphere Over 250 glowing Kanto poles light up the streets of Akita, transforming the city into a sea of golden lanterns under the summer sky.
- Traditional Chants and Taiko Drumming Feel the vibrant energy as chants of “Dokkoisho! Dokkoisho!” echo through the crowd, accompanied by rhythmic taiko drums and flutes.
- Interactive Daytime Performances During the day, enjoy up-close demonstrations, learn about Kanto techniques, and even try balancing a mini pole yourself.
Festival Schedule and Highlights
- Main Night Parades (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM) The heart of the festival—streets lined with glowing Kanto poles, swaying in unison to traditional music, creating an unforgettable visual spectacle.
- Kanto Competitions (9:00 AM – 3:30 PM) Daytime events feature teams competing in balancing techniques, impressing with strength, agility, and flawless coordination.
- Local Food and Souvenirs Savor Akita’s famous delicacies like Kiritanpo (grilled rice skewers), Hinai Jidori chicken, and premium Akita sake while browsing local crafts and souvenirs.
- Hands-On Cultural Experience Try your hand at Kanto balancing and connect with local traditions through fun and interactive sessions.
Dates: August 3–6, 2026
Visitor Tips for the Akita Kanto Festival
- Arrive Early Over a million people attend each year. To secure a good viewing spot, plan to arrive before 6:00 PM.
- Dress for the Weather Akita can be hot and humid in August—wear breathable clothing and comfortable footwear.
- Bring a Camera Capture the stunning night views and share your unforgettable experience with the world.
- Explore More of Akita While you’re in town, visit Senshu Park, the Akita Museum of Art, or take a day trip to the scenic Oga Peninsula.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss the Akita Kanto Festival
The Akita Kanto Festival is more than just a celebration—it’s a living tradition that honors community spirit, perseverance, and artistic excellence. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this summer festival offers a unique opportunity to witness Japan’s cultural heritage come to life.
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