Nebuta Festival Museum
There are parade floats, and then there are Japanese parade floats. Held annually at the beginning of August, Aomori’s Nebuta Matsuri is a grand celebration of myths and legends. What if you aren’t able to be there for the festival itself though? Aomori has you covered with a museum dedicated to showcasing the wonderful works of art that are emblematic of the city’s culture.
It all starts with a wooden frame and post after post to form a skeleton for the float. Think of the Rose Parade in Pasadena, California, but with a different twist. The festival only takes place at night, so the designs are based around lighting. A series of bulbs are strung inside and out, before the structure is adorned with washi paper and painted meticulously to bring the characters to life. Gods and demons do battle as taiko drums add suspense and drama to the atmosphere (there was a band, not pictured, giving a performance at the museum).
All in all, was a really interesting way to get up close with an art form that is missed if visiting Aomori any week of the year besides the festival itself.
Shot on August 11, 2024 - Travel, Japan
