10 Things to Do at the Sendai Tanabata Festival in Sendai, Japan
The Sendai Tanabata Festival, also known as the Star Festival, is an annual event held in Sendai, Japan. It is one of the most popular festivals in Japan and attracts millions of visitors every year. The festival is held in August, and it celebrates the legend of two stars, Orihime and Hikoboshi, who were separated by the Milky Way and allowed to meet only once a year. During the festival, people write their wishes on colorful strips of paper and hang them on bamboo branches, hoping they will come true. Here are 10 things to do at the Sendai Tanabata Festival in Sendai, Japan.
1. Watch the Parade: Every year, the Sendai Tanabata Festival opens with a parade that features floats, performers, and traditional Japanese music. The parade is a great way to experience the culture and history of Sendai.
2. Eat the Local Food: Food is an important part of the Sendai Tanabata Festival, and there are plenty of delicious treats to enjoy. Try some of the local specialties such as senbei (rice crackers), yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), and takoyaki (octopus balls).
3. Visit the Stalls: There are hundreds of stalls at the Sendai Tanabata Festival, selling everything from handmade crafts and souvenirs to traditional Japanese food. Take some time to wander around and explore the stalls.
4. Watch the Fireworks: Every night of the festival, there is a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks are set off from the banks of the Hirose River, and the display can be seen from all over the city.
5. Take a Boat Ride: The Sendai Tanabata Festival is held on the banks of the Hirose River, and there are boat rides available for visitors. The boat rides are a great way to get a different perspective of the festival.
6. Try the Local Sake: Sendai is famous for its sake, and there are many sake breweries in the city. Take some time to sample some of the local sake and learn more about the brewing process.
7. Visit the Museums: There are several museums in Sendai, including the Sendai City Museum, the Miyagi Prefectural Museum, and the Sendai City Art Museum. Take some time to explore the museums and learn more about the history and culture of Sendai.
8. Go to the Shrine: The Sendai Tanabata Festival is held at the Zuihoden Shrine, a shrine dedicated to the Date clan, the ruling family of Sendai during the Edo period. Take some time to explore the shrine and learn more about the Date clan.
9. Take a Tour: There are several guided tours available during the festival, including walking tours, bus tours, and boat tours. The tours are a great way to learn more about the history and culture of Sendai.
10. Enjoy the Festival: The Sendai Tanabata Festival is a great way to experience the culture and history of Sendai. Take some time to wander around and enjoy the atmosphere of the festival.
The Sendai Tanabata Festival is a great way to experience the culture and history of Sendai. Whether you’re looking to explore the local museums, sample the local sake, or simply take in the atmosphere of the festival, there is something for everyone at the Sendai Tanabata Festival.