Yamagata Hanagasa Festiva

• Yamagata
• Festivals & Events
• Summer

The Yamagata Hanagasa Festival, symbolizing summer nights in Yamagata Prefecture, is one of the four major festivals of the Tohoku region. This passionate celebration takes place annually from August 5th to 7th along the main streets of Yamagata City. To the spirited chants of Yasho, Makasho!, around 10,000 dancers parading through the city carry Hanagasa hats adorned with vibrant safflowers. The breathtaking beauty of perfectly synchronized group performances and traditional dances featuring powerful hat-spinning movements resonate with the rhythmic beat of Japanese Taiko drums, drawing all spectators into a whirlwind of excitement. With sections where onlookers can spontaneously join the parade, it offers a deeply moving experience where you can feel the unity and energy of a Japanese summer firsthand.