Akita Kanto Festival: Sky-High Lantern Poles

Part of the autumnal scenery in Akita, the Akita Kanto Festival is one of the top 3 festivals in northeastern Japan. Held on July 7 of the old lunar calendar, it is a tradition intended to drive away the maladies and evils of summer, and pray for a good harvest. Kanto, the main feature of the festival, are long poles decorated entirely with hanging lanterns, representing the ears of rice plants. These poles can be as long as 12 meters and weight up to 50 kilograms, making it an impressive act when a single artisan carries the pole.

April 30, 2016