Fukushima Waraji Festival

Fukushim Straw Sandal Festival

The Fukushima Waraji Matsuri (Straw Sandal Festival) is a two day festival held early August in Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture. The festival gets its name from the traditional waraji straw sandals and is based on an older festival called Akatsuki-Mairi. The festival is Fukushima's way of fighting the summer heat with various waraji-themed events including large parades, waraji races, dancing, and more.

The centerpiece of the festival is the 12 meter long giant waraji meant to be a symbol of safe travels and walking. The event includes a traditional folk song dances and performances, with many locals dressed in happi coats, yukata, and of course waraji sandals. The festival even offers waraji making workshops and hip-hop inspired dancing as well as reggae-inspired music.

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Fukushima Waraji Festival | Related Travel