Kanto Matsuri
MatsuriTohoku(Akita)
Annual eventDates
2026-08-03 — 2026-08-06
Venue
Kanto Odori (main street), central Akita City
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
CrowdedAkita's pole lantern festival where performers balance bamboo poles with lanterns.
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.
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.