Japan enjoys very distinct seasons and each one has a particular beauty and charm. From the romantic Sakura cherry blossoms in the spring, the vibrant momiji maple leaves with their iridescent colours in autumn, to the abundant light powdery snow of winter, the extremes offer the allure of an ever-changing landscape. But too often overlooked is the summer season - perhaps because the climate is considered to be too hot and humid, but with a little local knowledge there are wonders to be discovered which can form the basis of an unforgettable adventure.

The beautiful region of Tohoku (see previous issues which introduced the unique skiing in Zao Onsen and Alts Bandai) lies in the north-eastern section of the main island of Honshu, is considered to be remote and scenic thanks to its mountainous interior, thick forests and dramatic coastline. It is also considered a harsh climate, but whilst it can be exceptionally cold and snowy during winter, the summer heat is often less intense, making a more attractive climate than southern regions.

However, what really draws the crowds to Tohoku are the many traditional festivals and celebrations that run seemingly consecutively throughout August and September from one prefecture to the next. The Matsuri have their roots in traditional harvest festivities, but many have since evolved into extravagant carnivals drawing huge crowds eager for a spectacle and unique atmosphere. We’ve rounded up a few highlights which can be incorporated into summer itineraries exploring this fascinating and enchanting region.

NEBUTA MATSURI, AOMORI PREFECTURE

Cool off in Aomori, the northernmost tip of Tohoku, and dance among spectacular giant floats at Japan’s most iconic festival.

The streets of Aomori City come alive in summer with gigantic, vibrantly-coloured floats depicting mythical legends and Gods during the Nebuka Festival. Held annually between 2nd and 7th August, it is one of the most recognisable festivals in Japan. The elaborate lantern floats, vividly illuminated from inside, are paraded around each day accompanied by dancers and taiko drums bellowing out thunderous tunes. They leer and sweep over the cheering crowds as teams of volunteers push floats through the 3km circuit.

The float’s design and construction can take an entire year to complete, consisting of died washi paper meticulously draped over bamboo frames. Reaching up to 5m tall and 9m wide, they depict dynamic scenes of Japanese deities and famous mythological figures, along with some more contemporary characters. Hundreds of light bulbs are strung beneath the dyed paper, bringing them dramatically to life in vivid technicolour. The accompanying Haneto dancers follow behind the floats throwing bells at the expectant crowds whilst performing their backwards skipping dance. The spectacle is the most infectiously energetic festival atmosphere that will leave a lasting impression.

AKITA KANTO FESTIVAL OF LIGHT

An inspiring festival of light to ward off evil spirits and give thanks for the harvest.

One of the three main festivals in the region, the Akita Kanto Matsuri is held in early August each year. This summer festival is held to pray for a good harvest of the five grains grown in the region: wheat, rice, beans, foxtail millet and Chinese millet and is believed to date back to the 17th century. Using only their hips, shoulders or foreheads, young people wearing traditional festival garb take turns hoisting up eight-meter-high bamboo poles decorated with 46 paper lanterns and shreds of paper, all secured in intricate bamboo structure. The lantern pole design resembles an ear of wheat and when over 200 similar lantern poles are hoisted and simultaneously paraded through the town to the sound of flutes and drums, there are over 10,000 individual candle lanterns lighting up the night sky - truly a sight to behold.

OMAGARI HANBI FIREWORKS FESTIVAL

The spectacular National fireworks competition held on the 4th Saturday in August is a spectacle not to be missed.

The Omagari Hanabi fireworks festival showcases the latest advanced techniques and new pyrotechnics to wow expectant audiences year after year. It is one of Japan’s top three fireworks festivals, and is a competition in which leading fireworks makers selected from around the country vie for the position of best in Japan. The judging places importance on design, colours, and creativity, and it is an influential competition with prizes awarded by the Prime Minister of Japan. The famous displays are choreographed to music and light up the entire sky in a dramatic setting on the banks of the Omono River. Tohoku offers a rich and diverse range of attractions for a summer adventure and our specialist team can coordinate entry to festivals, English speaking guides, handpicked accommodation and personalised experiences to make your trip as memorable as possible. Once you have had your thrills at these big events you are never far away from the peace and tranquility of ancient forests, the spectacular coastline, unique hotel properties and the warm hospitality of your hosts. So why not take a Japanese adventure next summer and find out for yourself?

For more information on holidays to Japan, speak to one of our Travel Consultants on 020 8246 5300 or click here.