Tohoku · FukushimaFestival
Counted among Japan’s great lantern festivals, with seven massive floats each hung with more than 300 paper lanterns — around 3,000 in all — pulled through the streets at night.
Overview
At the Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival (Chochin Matsuri), the lanterns are lit by sacred flames and the floats move to taiko drums and festival music. It is designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset of Fukushima Prefecture.
When and Where
The 2026 festival runs October 3 to 5 at Nihonmatsu Shrine and through the city centre in Nihonmatsu, Fukushima Prefecture.
Getting There
Take the JR Tohoku Main Line to Nihonmatsu Station; the shrine is about a three-minute walk away, and the floats parade through the station area.
What to Expect
After dark the lantern-covered floats glow warmly as they are hauled through the streets, the flames transferred from a sacred fire — a river of soft light moving through the autumn night.
Tips for Visitors
Come in the evening when the lanterns are lit — that is the highlight. Early-October nights in Fukushima can be cool, so bring a light jacket.
Access and Map
| Dates (2026) | October 3–5 |
|---|---|
| Venue | Nihonmatsu Shrine and city centre, Fukushima |
| Access | JR Tohoku Main Line to Nihonmatsu Station (3-min walk) |
| Admission | Free |
| Official site | Fukushima Travel |
Source: Fukushima Travel (official)
Image: Photo: M Murakami / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0
