Akita Kanto Matsuri - One of the Three Great Festivals of Tohoku in Akita

The Akita Kanto Festival is one of the three great festivals of Tohoku, held annually in August in central Akita City and designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. Originating from the "neburi-nagashi" ritual of the mid-Edo period that prayed for disease prevention during summer and bountiful harvests, this traditional festival boasts a history of approximately 270 years. The main feature of the festival is the kanto, long bamboo poles that can reach up to 12 meters in height and weigh up to 50 kilograms, with the largest "dai-waka" adorned with 46 lanterns representing rice stalks. Performers showcase their "myogi" (skillful techniques) by balancing these kanto on a single point using their palms, foreheads, shoulders, or hips, while spectators cheer with calls of "dokkoisho." During the evening performances, approximately 280 kanto rise simultaneously, with 10,000 lanterns lit by candles creating a spectacular golden glow against the night sky. The performances, accompanied by drums and flute music, are truly impressive, and after the show, visitors can get up close to the kanto for photo opportunities during a hands-on experience time. Held on Kanto Odori within walking distance of Akita Station, this festival offers a precious cultural experience where visitors can fully enjoy the essence of Japanese summer festivals.