Tanabata (七夕) meaning "evening of the seventh" is a Japanese festival that originates from the Chinese Qixi Festival. It is in celebration of the meeting of the deities (and lovers) Orihime and Hikoboshi, and according to legend, they are only allowed to meet once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunisolar calendar. In Japan, it is celebrated by writing your wish on a piece of paper and attaching it to a bamboo tree. At Tanabata festivals, tons of intricate and flashy streamers are hung along large walkways, and you can play typical Japanese festival games, and try typical Japanese festival food such as kakigori, takoyaki, and candy fruits!
Although most Tanabata Festivals are held either on or close to July 7th, the Sendai Tanabata Festival is held annually from August 6th-8th, and its one of the largest and most popular Tanabata Festivals in Japan!
Festivities take place throughout Downtown Sendai, but the main feature of this festival is the colorful and vibrant streamer decorations that are hung on bamboo poles from the rooftops of the Ichibancho and Chuo Shopping Arcades. Each streamer decoration is handcrafted by the community and local shops.
Where: 3 Chome-2 Ichibancho, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0811
When: August 6/7 10:00 ~ 22:00 & August 8th 10:00 ~ 21:00
How Much: Free
Website: https://www.sendaitanabata.com/en
The shops in the shopping arcades get creative with their decorations!
wow, such great decorations - looks like a fun outing!