3 recommended events in Sendai fascinating you with traditions a stunning view created by light

Masamune Date a military commander who is famous for winning numerous battles during the Sengoku period. Having called ‘Dokuganryu (one-eyed dragon),’ Masamune built Japan’s most impregnable castle in Sendai. Sendai was advanced in the Edo era, and now it serves as the central city of Tohoku region. The history of Masamune Date is passed down to the next generation in the form of festivals, and large festivals are held in May and August. In winter, Sendai brims with illuminations allowing you to feel as if you’re exploring a fairyland. Why not attend festivals and events unique to Sendai?

This time, we’re going to introduce our recommended festival and event held around Sendai Washington Hotel.

“Sendai Aoba Festival” with 360 years of history

“Sendai Aoba Festival,” one of the three grand festivals, is held every year since 1655. At Yoi Matsuri (the eve of the festival), the highlight is ‘Suzume Dance’ having a history of over 400 years. This powerful dance performed by dancers in perfect sync is a must-see. At Hon Matsuri (the main festival), be sure not to miss Jidai-Emaki Junko! About 4,000 people wearing kimono, armors and so on parade through the city. The warrior Date family who was the lord of the Sendai clan takes the lead, followed by people that carry the fire gun artillery and portable shrines. Moreover, you can also enjoy local dishes and ‘Date-en’ where the landscape of the Edo period is reproduced, Rakugo (traditional comic storytelling) and more.

Period	Yoi Matsuri: 19th May, 2018　11:25AM – 8:00PM Hon Matsuri: 20th May,2018　10:00AM – 6:00PM ※The Schedules vary depending on each venue.
Venue	Around Kotodai Park Shimin Hiroba (Citizen Plaza)
Access	A 1-min walk from Kotodaikoen station where it takes 3 mins by the Nanboku line from Sendai station
URL	https://sendai-travel.jp/activities/aoba-festival/

“Sendai Tanabata Festival” coloring summer in Sendai

“Sendai Tanabata Festival” is famous as one of the three grand festivals in Tohoku region, and over 2 million people attend it every year. The leading role of this festival is by far the various Sasakazari that colorfully decorate the city. Lots of gorgeous Sasakazari that fill shopping districts is especially a sight to see, which are elaborately made of Japanese Washi paper. Moreover, this festival has many attractive things which children and adults can enjoy such as Tanabata Dance and food stalls, stage performances and so on. Visiting Sendai Castle Ruins located in Aoba Park at night, you can see illuminated Sasakazari and the castle on the background of a sparkling night view of Sendai. By the way, approximately 16,000 fireworks are fired from 7:00PM on 5th August.

Period	6th August, 2018 – 7th August, 2018　10:00AM – 10:00PM 8th August, 2018 10:00AM – 9:00PM
Venue	In front of Sendai station, Shopping districts around Sendai station, Chuo-dori, Kotodai Park Shimin Hiroba, Aoba Park etc
Access	Most of venues are within 10 mins walking distance from the hotel
URL	https://www.sendaitanabata.com/en

“2018 SENDAI Pageant of Starlight” whose heart-warming light embraces Sendai

Speaking of the most popular illuminations event in Miyagi prefecture, it’s “2018 SENDAI Pageant of Starlight.” About 600,000 light bulbs which decorate 160 zelkova trees lined up along Jozenji-dori give off small gentle light. The view looks as if flowers of light were in full bloom. In addition, there will be the outdoor skating rink surrounding by light world, piano concerts making venues more romantic, Christmas Market where you can enjoy hot chocolate and stew, and more. Why not have a wonderful winter with your family, friends of yours or your partner?

Period	14th December, 2018 – 31st December, 2018 Sun-Thu 5:30PM – 10:00PM／Fri, Sat, 23rd and 24th Dec 5:30PM – 11:00PM／31st Dec 5:30PM – 12:00AM
Venue	Jozenji-Dori, Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture
Access	A 1-min walk from Kotodaikoen station where it takes 3 mins by the Nanboku station from Sendai station
URL	https://sendai-travel.jp/activities/sendai-pagent-of-starlight/