The Giant Tug of War of Kariwano 2026

• February 10, 2026 at 12:00 pm
  Event date:
• February 10, 2026 at 11:00 am
  Event end:

History

The Kariwano Giant Tug of War (刈和野の大綱引き) is a centuries-old festival that dates back over 500 years in Daisen City, Akita Prefecture. The event originated as a ritual to ensure a successful rice harvest, a critical part of the local agricultural economy.

Historically, each neighborhood had a stake in the outcome, with the town split into two teams: one red and one yellow. Legend says that if the red team wins, rice prices will be stable, and if the yellow team wins, there will be an abundant harvest. This festival has become a symbol of community unity, tradition, and the agricultural calendar in northern Japan.

The event has been passed down through generations, maintaining its historical significance while growing into a major winter festival attracting visitors from across Japan. Over time, live radio broadcasts and modern coverage have helped preserve the excitement and tradition for new audiences.

Overview

The Kariwano Giant Tug of War 2026 is an awe-inspiring spectacle where hundreds of participants pull on two massive rice straw ropes weighing around 20 tons in total. The main match, which starts in the evening, is a dramatic contest between Uemachi (Upper Town) and Shitamachi (Lower Town), with the winner symbolically predicting the coming year’s rice harvest.

Preparations begin weeks in advance, with ropes being hand-crafted from rice straw, blessed by a Shinto priest, and transported to Omachi Dori, the main street in Kariwano. The festival features early evening festivities including a “Pushing Contest,” taiko drum performances, and local sake consumption, all creating a lively and communal atmosphere before the main tug-of-war begins.

Highlights

• Two enormous rice straw ropes weighing approximately 20 tons in total.
• Historic tug-of-war between Uemachi (Upper Town) and Shitamachi (Lower Town).
• The outcome is believed to predict the rice harvest for the coming year.
• Pre-event rituals include rope blessings, drum performances, and local festivities.
• Fireworks display and community celebrations accompany the main contest.

Why Jasumo Recommends?

• Witness a traditional ritual that has shaped local culture for centuries.
• Experience the scale and excitement of one of Japan’s largest tug-of-war events.
• Engage with community traditions and winter festival activities.
• Perfect for photography, cultural immersion, and family visits.
• Unique chance to see Japan’s agricultural customs celebrated in action.

If you’re coming to Japan or are already here, and need help with custom tours, transportation, or booking tickets and more — just contact us through the Contact Us page on Jasumo.

Schedule

• Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2026
• Time: 13:50 – 22:30
• Main Pulling Contest: Around 9:00 PM, though early evening events begin from late afternoon.
• Activities include rope preparations, taiko performances, a “Pushing Contest,” and fireworks.

Pricing

• Entry: Free for all visitors.
• Food and drink stalls available at reasonable prices.

Location

Venue: Kariwano Omachi Dori, Kariwano district, Daisen City
Address: 190-1 Kariwano, Daisen, Akita 019-2112, Japan
Phone: 018-775-1115

Map Points & Nearby Landmarks:

• Daisen City Center: Easily accessible via Akita Shinkansen and Ou Main Line.
• National Routes 13, 46, 105: Key access roads to Kariwano; winter travel requires caution.
• Local Accommodations: Hotels and inns in Daisen city for festival visitors.
• Parking: Available but limited; public transport is recommended due to winter conditions.

Tips: Allow extra travel time as winter roads can be slippery and traffic heavy. Dress warmly for outdoor activities and long hours of waiting.

Accommodation Options

Visitors can stay in Daisen City or nearby towns, with options ranging from small hotels to traditional inns (ryokans). Staying locally allows easy access to the festival and surrounding winter attractions.

Average costs range from ¥5,000 to ¥12,000 per night, depending on the type of accommodation. Advance booking is highly recommended due to festival popularity.

FAQs

How heavy are the ropes used in the tug-of-war?

Two rice straw ropes are used, weighing approximately 10 tons each, totaling 20 tons.

What are the two teams in the festival?

The town is split into Uemachi (Upper Town) and Shitamachi (Lower Town).

Does the winner affect local agriculture?

Yes, the result is considered an omen for the coming year’s rice harvest: Uemachi winning predicts higher rice prices, Shitamachi winning predicts a bumper harvest.

When does the main tug-of-war begin?

The main contest starts around 9:00 PM, with earlier festivities beginning in the late afternoon.

Is the event open to the public?

Yes, the festival is free for all visitors, who can watch the contest and enjoy other activities along Omachi Dori.

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