Matsuri in Yamagata

Bugaku dances, mikoshi processions and lantern floats mark Yachi Hachimangu Shrine's autumn festival.

Yamagata's flower hat dance festival with thousands of dancers.

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

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.