Experience 'behind the scenes' of a festival! Ｗitness the Hirosaki Neputa floats come to life!

- Witness the moment when a giant “Neputa” float is lit up!
- Watch traditional events and rituals take place in front of you, such as prayers and a fireman's Matoi dance for protection from fire!
- Participate in the taiko drumming practice for the festival music!
- After the ceremony, cerebrate together with the locals over a cold beer!

Address Machinaka-Joho-center (94-1, Dotemachi, Hirosaki, Aomori)

Number Of Participants Only 1-10 persons / per day

Start Time 19:00-21:00

Run Term From Jul.31 2020 To Jul.31 2020

* What is NEPUTA／NEBUTA？
Why not discover ‘behind the scenes’ of Aomori at an event only seen during the first week of August? Every year from August 1 to 7, the people of Aomori Prefecture focus everything on one event – the ‘Neputa’ (or Nebuta) festival! Those from Aomori City typically call it ‘Nebuta’ and those from Hirosaki call it ‘Neputa’. By the way, ‘Neputa’ is a convenient word that refers to both the majestic floats of the festival as well as the festival as a whole – it’s a little complicated, isn’t it?

* Features of the Hirosaki Neputa
There are two main types of floats, fan-shaped and figure-shaped. In Hirosaki City, the majority of floats are fan-shaped. On the front side of the big fan you will find a colorful painting of a brave warrior scene from "Sangokushi, Three Kingdoms" or "Suikoden, The Water Margin" folktales, while the other side is often drawn with a bewitching beauty. The contrast of the two scenes is one of the main attractions of Hirosaki Neputa. Another unique feature of the Hirosaki Neputa is the call of ‘Ya-ya-dou’ that is cried out by the participants as they pull the floats slowly along.

* Origin of the NEPUTA festival
There are various theories about the origin of "Neputa", but it was originally an event held by Aomori farmers. It is believed that the "Neputa" festival serves the function of resting the body and opening the mind after the hard farm labor of Spring, in preparation for the coming Autumn harvest.
It might be a foreign concept for many, but in countryside Japan it is said that lazy habits and drowsiness of summer are evils that would hinder the Autumn harvest. To keep them at bay, this event has been held during the Tanabata festival in rural areas since ancient times. In the local Tsugaru dialect, "I want to sleep" is pronounced "Nepute", but overtime this word changed to "Neputa", and became the name of the event itself. Unlike many other Japanese festivals, "Neputa" is not a festival or ritual associated with a shrine or temple, but an event occurring among the common people. Prayers for a bountiful harvest and protection from catastrophes and disease are entrusted to the Neputa instead of praying to God. This annual event is an important source of energy and encouragement for the people of Aomori.

* NEPUTA is the soul of the AOMORI people!
This event brings together the local people in their shared hope for a bountiful Autumn to overcome the long, cold winter. For the Aomori people, "Neputa" is not only their soul and spirit, but it is maybe even Aomori itself. Oh, it is also a unique characteristic of Neputa that visitors can join-in the action! Why not take this rare chance to discover ‘behind the scenes’of Aomori – something you usually wouldn’t even catch a glimpse of?

Timetable Meet 19:00
At Machinaka-Joho-center (94-1, Dotemachi, Hirosaki, Aomori)
Move to the shed where a Neputa float is stored. (about 10 minutes on foot)
19:30 Enjoy traditional events and rituals take place in front of you, such as prayers and fireman's Matoi dance for protection from fires.
20:00 Cheers! (Enjoy interaction and drinking with locals)
* You can also participate in the festival taiko drum practice during this program

Outline * What’s Included
- Private English speaking guide
- Right to visit rituals such as prayer and wrapping
- Right to participate in the festival of Taiko
- Drinks after the ritual (canned beer or soft drink)

* Not included
- Transport
- any hotel accommodation
- rain gear
** Any additional meals and drinks
** Anything not included in the above 'included' list

Meeting place Machinaka-Joho-center (94-1, Dotemachi, Hirosaki, Aomori)
* Meet by 19:00

Cancellation Policy More than 30 days: Deposit
15 days - 29 days prior: 30%
6 - 14 days prior: 70%
No show – 5 days prior: 100%

Notice * Attire
- Casual clothes recommended

* While visiting ritual ceremonies
- As this is an experience only available through the courtesy of local festival groups, please communicate and conduct yourself with consideration and gratitude.
- Please notify staff immediately if you are experiencing any trouble or feel unwell.

* Wrap-up party
Whilst some alcohol drinks such as canned beer and soft drinks are included in the ticket price, the number of drinks is limited so please enjoy in moderation. The same applies for snacks that will also be provided.

* In case of rain
The event will still be held in the event of rain, with participants wearing rain gear. No refund will be provided if you do not participate of your own will.

* If you are late
If you are late for the meeting time for unavoidable reasons, please call the emergency contact number (to be notified later).

* If the minimum number of participants is not met the event will be cancelled.