[Yamagata Hanagasa Festival] A gorgeously dancing hat dance! A festival that colors the summer in Tohoku

What is the Yamagata Hanagasa Festival?

The Yamagata Hanagasa Festival is one of the representative summer festivals of the Tohoku region, held annually from August 5th to 7th in Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture.

This traditional event features dancers holding vibrant benibana-patterned hanagasa (flower hats) and dancing with the distinctive chant, "Yassho, Makasho!"

The festival started in 1963 and has since evolved into a large-scale parade with about 10,000 dancers participating.

It is counted among the "Four Great Festivals of Tohoku", attracting many tourists.

With its splendid and graceful dances, coupled with powerful group performances, it is an excellent opportunity to experience Japanese culture!

This article will introduce the charm, ways to enjoy, and access information for the Yamagata Hanagasa Festival in detail!

Highlights of the Yamagata Hanagasa Festival

1. The Spectacular Hanagasa Dance Parade

The main highlight of the Yamagata Hanagasa Festival is the Hanagasa Dance Parade held on the main street of Yamagata City.

The sight of about 10,000 dancers holding flower hats modeled after benibana and performing in synchronized choreography is truly impressive!

Features of the Hanagasa Dance

• Dynamic "Kasa Mawashi Odori": Characterized by powerful movements, primarily performed by men
• Graceful "Nagashi Odori": Featuring gentle choreography, participated by women and children
• Unique Group Performances: Each company or group adds their own twist to their performances

The chant "Yassho, Makasho!" echoes throughout the venue, enveloping the entire area in excitement.

2. Interactive Event! Hanagasa Experience for Everyone

The Yamagata Hanagasa Festival offers a "Jump-In Participation Corner" for tourists to enjoy.

No prior registration is required, and you can join right on the spot, so it's recommended to try dancing yourself!

How to Participate:

• Gather at the "Tourist Participation Area" on the day of the festival
• Staff will provide simple choreography instructions
• Join the parade and dance along!

Beginners are welcome! Grab a colorful hanagasa and become a part of the festival!

3. Savor Yamagata's Local Cuisine!

During the festival, enjoy unique local delicacies at stalls and restaurants in Yamagata City.

Recommended Gourmet

• Yamagata Specialty "Chilled Ramen" (a refreshing ramen perfect for the hot summer)
• Imoni (a traditional Yamagata dish, irresistible with the flavors of taro and beef!)
• Tama Konnyaku (a healthy street food simmered in special soy sauce)
• Cherry Sweets (gelato and tarts made with Yamagata cherries)

Enjoy the festival atmosphere while savoring the gourmet treats!

4. Enchanting Night Atmosphere of the Hanagasa Festival

The Yamagata Hanagasa Festival starts around 18:00 in the evening and continues into the night.

The sight of dancers gracefully performing on streets adorned with lanterns and lights creates a magical and romantic ambiance.

The festival climax features a powerful simultaneous performance, leaving the entire venue in awe!

Useful Information for Travelers

Access Information

Access by Train

• About 2 hours and 30 minutes from Tokyo Station to Yamagata Station by Yamagata Shinkansen
• About 1 hour from Sendai Station to Yamagata Station by JR Senzan Line

Access by Car

• About 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Sendai City
• About 30 minutes by car from Yamagata Airport
• Temporary parking available (only during the festival period)

Event Location & Schedule

• Location: Central Yamagata City (Tokamachi, Honcho, Nanokamachi, Otemon Street)
• Schedule: Annually from August 5th to 7th
• Time: 18:00 to 21:30

Wi-Fi Information

• Free Wi-Fi available around Yamagata Station and festival venues

Language Support

• English and Chinese tourist brochures available (obtainable at Yamagata City Tourist Information Center)
• Tourist information staff can assist in basic English

Summary and Frequently Asked Questions

The Yamagata Hanagasa Festival is one of the representative summer festivals of Tohoku, characterized by beautiful Hanagasa dances and lively chants.

With experience corners where tourists can participate and delicious local foods to enjoy, it's perfect for summer travel!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where can I watch the Hanagasa Festival?

A: The parade takes place along Nanokamachi, Honcho, and Tokamachi Streets in central Yamagata City. Viewing seats are also available along the route.

Q: Do I need to register in advance to participate in the festival?

A: The "Tourist Participation Area" allows for walk-in participation, so you can dance without prior registration!

Q: What is the best time to visit?

A: 19:00 to 20:30 is highly recommended! The collaboration of night-time lights and dances creates a magical experience.

Q: What is the origin of the Yamagata Hanagasa Festival?

A: It is believed to have originated from rice planting dances in the Yamagata area. It later evolved into the vibrant Hanagasa dance with the development of the benibana industry.

Be sure to visit the **"Yamagata Hanagasa Festival"**, which colors the summer in Yamagata, and enjoy the exhilarating festival atmosphere!