What it is
The Hanagasa Matsuri is one of the four big summer festivals of Tohoku. It is named after the hanagasa, a straw hat covered in artificial safflowers, the flower that once made Yamagata rich as a source of red dye.
For three evenings, dance groups from schools, companies and neighborhoods parade through the city center, swinging and twirling their hats in unison to the beat of drums. It is a lively, joyful festival, and one of the easiest in Tohoku for visitors to join.
The festival at a glance
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| Aug 5–7, evening | Hanagasa parade: Dance groups parade along the main street with flower hats |
Which day should you go?
Any evening, Aug 5–7
Watch the dancers, then join the open dance group at the end of the parade.
What to look for
The hats
Straw hats decorated with safflowers, the flower of Yamagata, once grown for red dye.
The chant
Dancers call “Yasshō! Makashō!” in time with the drums.
Join in
Some groups at the end of the parade welcome visitors to dance with them.
Getting there & where to stay
| From | How | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | Yamagata Shinkansen (Tsubasa) to Yamagata | about 2 h 45 min |
On the day. The dance parade runs along the main street, about 10 minutes on foot from Yamagata Station.
Crowds. Paid seats are sold in advance. The parade starts in the early evening.
Where to stay
Central Yamagata
Walk to the parade.
Zaō Onsen
A hot-spring town in the mountains, about 40 minutes by bus.
When to book. Book 3 months ahead.
Times are typical fastest routes. Check current timetables before you travel.
Practical tips
- Tohoku tour. The Aomori Nebuta, Akita Kantō and Sendai Tanabata festivals are the same week.
- Hot nights. Yamagata summers are hot. Bring water.
Glossary
Matsuri祭り
A Japanese festival, usually held for the kami of a local shrine. The word comes from the idea of serving and entertaining the gods.
References
- Yamagata Hanagasa Matsuri, official website.
- Yamagata Prefecture tourism information.
Last checked 2026-10-12.