Product Description

Overview

Dates: July 30 – August 5, 2025
Location: Kuroishi City, Aomori Prefecture, Japan
Access:

• ~10-minute walk from Kuroishi Station (Konan Railway)
• ~8 minutes by car from Kuroishi Interchange

Entry Fee: Free

About the Festival

The Kuroishi Neputa Festival is a historic summer celebration that marks the beginning of the Michinoku Fire Festivals. It is one of the most community-driven festivals in Aomori Prefecture, drawing participation from over 70 neighborhood and volunteer groups.

The tradition dates back to the Tenmei era (1781–1788) and is believed to have evolved from the Tanabata Festival. Today, the event symbolizes both regional unity and the transmission of cultural heritage through generations.

What sets Kuroishi Neputa apart is its unique float designs:

• Fan-shaped Neputa: Traditional style seen in many regions.
• Doll-shaped Neputa: Exclusive to Kuroishi, these elaborate five-tiered balustrade structures showcase remarkable craftsmanship. They are recognized as:
  • Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Kuroishi City (1990)
  • Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Aomori Prefecture (1993)

The floats are beautifully illuminated and feature vivid depictions of mythical warriors on the front and stunning “okuri-e” (paintings of graceful women) on the reverse. Young people play a central role, pulling the floats, dancing, and cheering, making it a vibrant event focused on nurturing community spirit.

Schedule Highlights

July 30 (Opening Day):

• 17:30 – Departure Ceremony
• 19:00 – Official Parade Start (in front of City Hall)

August 2 (Main Parade Day):

• 19:00 – Parade starts from Tomita Street (Oyama Shoten area)
• Award ceremony held at a special venue following the parade

Other Dates (July 31, August 1, 3–5):

• Floats parade independently through neighborhoods.
• August 5 – Final morning parade held at sunrise

Note: Unlike some larger festivals, there are only two days of joint parades (July 30 & August 2). On other days, each group parades through its own community.

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Festival Highlights

• Over 70 floats paraded throughout the festival period
• Community-led participation from youth to elders
• Emphasis on intergenerational cultural exchange
• Artistic and elaborate floats unique to the region
• Family-friendly atmosphere with educational and traditional value