Chubu · IshikawaCultural
Three of Japan’s largest festival floats, each as tall as a building, are hauled through Nanao by hand every May.
Overview
The Seihakusai Festival in Nanao, on Ishikawa’s Noto Peninsula, is famous for its Dekayama — three colossal wooden floats that rank among the largest in Japan, standing around 12 metres tall and weighing some 20 tonnes. Dedicated to Otokonushi Shrine, the festival sees teams haul these giants through narrow streets, and visitors are welcomed to take the ropes and pull. It is designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property and belongs to a UNESCO-listed group of float festivals.
When & Where
The festival is held on 3–5 May, so in 2026 it fills the Golden Week holidays. The three Dekayama, from the Kajimachi, Fuchumachi and Uomachi districts, move through central Nanao, converging at Otokonushi Shrine, with the grandest gathering on 4 May. The heart of the action is the central Nanao streets and shrine precinct. Nearest station: Nanao Station on the JR Nanao Line.
Getting There
From Kanazawa, take the JR limited express or local trains on the Nanao Line to Nanao Station (roughly an hour), then walk into the central festival area. Public transport around the Noto Peninsula is limited, so check timetables carefully and consider staying overnight. May weather is pleasant, but comfortable shoes help for standing and walking on cobbled streets.
What to Expect
Expect the sheer scale of the Dekayama to dominate: crews of pullers strain on thick ropes to turn and stop each float, guided by chants and drums. A highlight is the skilful pivoting of the floats at tight corners. Because participation is encouraged, travellers can often join the rope teams, making it a hands-on cultural experience rather than a spectator-only event.
Tickets & Access
Admission is free and the festival takes place in public streets and the shrine grounds. There is no ticketing or reserved seating. If you want to help pull a float, follow the crew’s directions and stand clear when the floats are moving, as they are extremely heavy.
Tips for Visitors
Aim for 4 May, when the floats gather, and arrive early to see them up close before crowds build. Wear closed, sturdy shoes if you plan to help pull. Combine the trip with Wakura Onsen and the wider Noto Peninsula scenery.
Access and Map
| Dates | 3–5 May 2026 (floats gather 4 May) |
|---|---|
| Venue | Central Nanao and Otokonushi Shrine, Ishikawa |
| Access | JR Nanao Line to Nanao Station from Kanazawa (~1 hr) |
| Admission | Free |
| Official site | Ishikawa Travel (official prefectural guide) |
Source: Ishikawa Travel (official prefectural guide)
Image: Photo: User: (WT-shared) Craigeditswiki at wts wikivoyage / Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
