Fire-flying Kamakura (Akita)
A sacred ring of fire wards off evil spirits in the snow
Every year on the bitterly cold night of February 14th, numerous rings of fire dance round and round on the snow. If you look closely, you can see people in the center of the rings. Everyone is vigorously swinging burning charcoal sacks attached to the end of ropes about one meter long. This is a traditional Little New Year's event in Kakunodate, where the sacred fire is used to ward off evil spirits from the fields and to pray for bountiful harvests and good health. What's great about this festival is that anyone can take part. Feeling the bright red flames and the sound of sparks exploding up close will bring you to a state of ecstasy. You'll feel as if you've come into contact with a power beyond human comprehension.
Noto Kiriko Festival (Ishikawa)
From summer to autumn, the excitement of the festival spreads across the peninsula
From July to October, festival energy explodes in around 30 locations across six cities and towns on the Noto Peninsula. The main attraction are the giant cut glass lanterns known as "Kiriko." Each region has its own unique design, and there are around 200 of them in total. As night falls, the illuminated kiriko are carried out and the sight of them running wildly through the town is a must-see. On festival days, there is also a custom of hospitality known as "Yobare." It would be fun to follow the festival energy and travel around the Noto Peninsula.
Gujo Dance (Gifu)
The longest Bon Odori festival in Japan, held 31 nights over two months
It began in the Edo period when a feudal lord shouted, "Let's all dance together, regardless of social status, whether samurai, farmer, artisan, or merchant." That spirit remains the same today, with everyone welcome, and locals and tourists alike dancing together in one circle. It is held for 31 nights between mid-July and early September, with the dance venue changing each night. The excitement reaches its peak during the four-day Obon festival (August 13th to 16th) with all-night dancing. There are also popular training sessions that even beginners can participate in on their own.
