The main festival in the birthplace of Hanagasa Ondo, where dancers carry flower fans and parade through the city

About this spot

A summer festival held on August 27-28 in Obanazawa, said to be the birthplace of the Hanagasa Ondo. Dancers carrying hanagasa (flower fans) shaped like safflowers parade through the city with shouts of 'Yassho, Makasho!' — one of the representative scenes of summer in Yamagata. You can enjoy comparing different dance styles: graceful female dancers and powerful male dancers, each group dancing uniquely. As evening falls and lanterns light up, the sound of drums and whistles echoes through town.

Season & hours

Tips

The areas around the parade route become crowded with spectators. To get a good viewing spot, head to the roadside early. For families with strollers, the back or wider streets along the route are safer options. Check official information for weather-related cancellation details.

Best time to visit

From 5 PM onward. After 6 PM when lanterns light up, the most festive atmosphere emerges.

Access & map

Yamagata Prefecture, throughout Obanazawa City