The Owara Kaze-no-Bon Festival is held every year from September 1st to 3rd in Yatsuo, Toyama Prefecture, and originated around 300 years ago as a ritual to ward off typhoons and bring good fortune to local rice crops. Nowadays, the festival has evolved into a popular cultural event, attracting visitors to this picturesque region of Japan.
A key feature of the festival is the beautiful dance performed after dark, surrounded by the glow of paper lanterns. Participants wear happi coats or yukatas and low-brimmed straw hats that obscure their faces as they move in unison to the melody, created by traditional string instruments like the kokyū and shamisen.
One key point to note about the participants is that they are all unmarried—historically there was some superstition that dancing would anger the gods, and the though process was that unmarried individuals would be looked upon more favorably as a type of "sacrifice". These days, it's seen as a way to socialize and mingle with others rather than anything nefarious!
You can get an idea of what to expect at the festival via the video below.
While there is no admission fee to enjoy the atmosphere of the festival, it's recommended to bring along some yen—there are numerous stalls set up at the event selling local handicrafts, food and drink items, and even hosting traditional games.
Getting there
The festival takes place in the center of Yatsuo, which can be conveniently accessed via either Toyama Station or Etchu Yatsuo Station. Shuttle bus services usually operate from Toyama Station to the area during the event dates.
Based on previous years, several parking lots are set up for the event. The requested donation to utilize these lots in past years was 3000 JPY, so visiting via public transportation is recommended as the most budget-friendly option.
Kim Bergström @kim.b
Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here. 🍵🌼🌸
