Akita Kanto Matsuri

About the festival

Akita Kanto Matsuri is held every August in Akita City and centres on kanto: tall bamboo poles hung with rows of paper lanterns, designed to resemble hanging rice sheaves. The festival began as a prayer for a good harvest, and the lanterns are still meant to represent the wish for abundant crops in the coming season.

Performers balance the poles, which can reach around 12 metres and hold dozens of lanterns, on their palms, shoulders, foreheads, and hips as they move through the streets after dark. The skill involved is considerable, and the festival includes a competitive element where performers are judged on balance and technique.

The main viewing area runs along Akita's central street, Kanto Odori, where the poles are lit and paraded each evening. Free viewing space along the street can get crowded, and paid seating is available for a more comfortable view.

The 2027 festival is expected to run from 3 to 6 August, following the festival's traditional annual dates.