Kanto Matsuri

The Kanto Matsuri in Akita City, held every August 3-6, is a thrilling celebration where performers balance tall bamboo poles adorned with paper lanterns. The festival, part of the Tohoku region’s "Three Great Festivals," features an impressive display of skill as performers lift and balance the kanto poles, some up to 12 meters tall. Along with nightly parades, the event includes daytime activities like kanto competitions and opportunities for visitors to try lifting mini poles.

The festival is a spectacle of sound and color, with drums, flutes, and cheers filling the streets. Visitors can enjoy the performances along Kanto Odori street, where over 250 poles are raised, creating an unforgettable sight. The Kanto Matsuri also offers cultural experiences at the Kanto Museum and fun activities at Agora Plaza. It's an unmissable summer event in Akita, showcasing traditional craftsmanship and artistry.