If you missed your chance to visit Aomori for its world-famous Nebuta Festival, there’s a mini-version taking place in Shinagawa that’s been running since 1989.
The main parade with the iconic Nebuta floats will go from 5pm-8pm. However there will be music, dancing and street food all afternoon starting at 12pm.
This event is running in conjunction with the Aomori Prefecture city of Kuroishi which has a Nebuta Festival in August (the more famous Nebuta Festivals take place in Aomori City and Hirosaki, but each city has their own festival with unique aspects). If you’re among the first 500 people to gather in the square before the parade, you can dance and chant along (“ra-se-ra”).
Foodwise, visitors will be able to try Kuroishi-style yakisoba.
To prevent the spread of COVID-19, many events have been canceled. Always check official sites before heading to an event.