Kanto Matsuri
MatsuriTohoku(Akita)
Annual eventDates
—
Venue
Kanto Odori (main street), central Akita City
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Crowded
Photos
Need the Akita Kanto Festival official website and 2026 dates?
Kanto Matsuri runs August 3-6, 2026 in Akita, with the night performances as the main draw. If you searched for "Akita Kanto Festival 2026 dates official", use the official website link for the latest daily-program details, then compare it with the August calendar or a wider Tohoku route if you are planning more than one northern festival.
Akita Kanto Festival: Mesmerizing bamboo lantern balancing. Aug 3–6, 2026. 280+ poles with 10,000 lanterns light up the night sky. Free admission.
Akita Kanto Matsuri features performers balancing long bamboo poles (kanto) hung with rows of illuminated paper lanterns, resembling ears of rice swaying in the wind. The largest poles are 12 meters tall, weigh 50 kg, and carry 46 lanterns. Skilled performers balance them on their palms, foreheads, shoulders, and hips, creating a stunning spectacle along the main street.
At a Glance
- Type
- Matsuri
- Dates
- 2026-08-03 – 2026-08-06
- Venue
- Kanto Odori (main street), central Akita City
- Status
- Scheduled
- Crowd Level
- Crowded
- Admission
- Free
- Annual event
- Annual
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Kanto Matsuri take place?
Kanto Matsuri takes place from 2026-08-03 to 2026-08-06.
Where is Kanto Matsuri held?
Kanto Matsuri is held at Kanto Odori (main street), central Akita City in Akita, Japan.
Where can I confirm the official status of Kanto Matsuri?
Use the official source for the latest schedule, route changes, and cancellation updates: https://www.kantou.gr.jp/.
What is the current status of Kanto Matsuri?
The current listing status is scheduled. Last checked: 2026-08-04.
Is Kanto Matsuri free to attend?
Yes, Kanto Matsuri is free to attend.
What is the admission fee for Kanto Matsuri?
The admission fee for Kanto Matsuri is ¥0.
How crowded is Kanto Matsuri?
The typical crowd level is high.
What are the highlights of Kanto Matsuri?
Performers balancing 12-meter bamboo poles with 46 lanterns; Nighttime performance along Kanto Odori main street; Daytime Kanto competition at Akita Sao grounds
How do I get to Kanto Matsuri?
15-minute walk from JR Akita Station. The nighttime performance takes place along Kanto Odori (Chuo-dori) in central Akita. Shuttle buses available from the station.
What should I know before attending Kanto Matsuri?
The nighttime performance starts at 7:50 PM. Reserved seating (around 3,000 yen) is available and recommended for the best views. After the main performance, performers bring kanto to the audience for photo opportunities.
Highlights
Performers balancing 12-meter bamboo poles with 46 lanterns; Nighttime performance along Kanto Odori main street; Daytime Kanto competition at Akita Sao grounds
Access
15-minute walk from JR Akita Station. The nighttime performance takes place along Kanto Odori (Chuo-dori) in central Akita. Shuttle buses available from the station.
Tips for Visitors
The nighttime performance starts at 7:50 PM. Reserved seating (around 3,000 yen) is available and recommended for the best views. After the main performance, performers bring kanto to the audience for photo opportunities.
Location
📍 Kanto Odori (main street), central Akita City