2026 Hanawa Neputa Full-Day Experience Course

A one-day course centered on the first day of the Hanawa Neputa festival, held around Kakudate Hanawa Station in Kakudate City on August 7-8, 2026. Start by visiting Kōinari Shrine (幸稲荷神社), sacred to the festival, then experience local culture at Comose, the Kakudate Cultural Center, and learn about regional heroes at the Kakudate Hall of Prominent Figures. In the early evening, shop and dine at Michi-no-Eki Kazuno Antraa rest area, then make your way to Kakudate Hanawa Station to witness the procession. Watch as massive Kasayama-style lanterns bearing neputa floats process alongside the rhythmic drumming—a perfect capstone to a day exploring Kakudate's history and culture, and ideal for families.