HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Akita’s Tenku no Fuyajo Festival
The tallest castle-shaped lanterns in Japan brighten the summer in Akita Prefecture’s Noshiro City
Akita Shirakami Tourism
Tenku no Fuyajo is held every August in Noshiro City, Akita Prefecture. This annual festival is celebrated for its massive, illuminated floats, which resemble traditional Japanese castles. These floats, towering up to 24.1 meters, are paraded through the streets, accompanied by traditional music, creating a spectacular summer event.
Originating in the Edo period (1603–1867), the festival was revived in 2013 after a long hiatus based on historical photographs. Local artisans meticulously recreated the enormous lantern floats, ensuring the preservation of traditional craftsmanship. Although still growing in popularity, Tenku no Fuyajo has begun attracting international visitors, slowly emerging as a unique cultural attraction.
The festival's floats are decorated with scenes depicting local history, making them not only visually impressive, but also culturally rich. The illuminated floats create a stunning sight against the night sky, ideal for photography enthusiasts. Visitors are also invited to participate by playing traditional drums or ringing bells.
How to get there
By Train: From Tokyo Station, take the Akita Shinkansen to Akita Station (3 hours and 50 minutes). From there, take the JR Ou Line to Higashi-Noshiro Station (1 hour), then transfer to the Gono Line train and get off at Noshiro Station (5 minutes). A 10-minute walk from Noshiro Station will take you to the festival site.
By Plane: From Haneda Airport, fly to Odate Noshiro Airport (about 1 hour and 10 minutes). From there, a 40-minute drive will take you to the festival site.
Noshiro-shi, Akita-ken (Around Noshiro City Hall)
