Festivals in Yamagata

Figures in straw costumes visit Kaminoyama's streets with wishes for fire protection and a good harvest.

Yamagata's premier fireworks festival along the Akagawa River.

Colorful flower hat dance parade through the streets of Yamagata.

Ancient Noh performed by farmers at Kasuga Shrine in Yamagata.

Floats depicting theatrical and historical scenes parade through Shinjo with festival music.

Costumed participants become shogi pieces on a giant board beneath the cherry blossoms of Mt. Maizuru.

Snow lanterns and small candlelit snow structures illuminate winter evenings around Uesugi Shrine.

Warrior processions and battle reenactments bring the history of the Uesugi clan to life in Yonezawa.

Festival celebrating the 'ice monsters' — snow-covered trees at Zao Onsen.