The city of Narita, located in the Chiba Prefecture of Japan, is globally known for its international airport, however, it offers so much more than just a transit hub. On top of serene landscapes and the convenient luggage storage Narita offers, this city is home to some of Japan's most fascinating festivals and celebrations. So whether you have a layover that allows for some local touring, or you'd like to spend a few days in the area, lets learn about five significant events, which invite travelers to delve deeper into the heart of this vibrant locale, bringing to light the fascinating and beautiful Japanese culture of the area.
1. Naritasan Gion Festival
Perhaps one of the most iconic festivals of Narita, the Naritasan Gion Festival is an annual event held in July. It is known for its grand procession, and participants dress in traditional garb and parade with beautifully adorned mikoshi through the city streets.
The festival is also notable for its traditional performances, including Japanese drumming, dance, and martial arts. The main highlight is the Yama floats, which are intricately decorated and showcase Japanese craftsmanship. Tourists can soak in the festive atmosphere, partake in street food, and witness the lively interactions between the locals during this event.
2. Uneme Festival
Dedicated to a tragic love story between a court lady (Uneme) and the Emperor, the Uneme Festival takes place every September around Narita’s Chiba Prefecture. The story goes that after being spurned by the Emperor, the heartbroken Uneme drowned herself in Sarusawa Pond in Nara. Today, this festival commemorates her story and is a vibrant celebration of love, loss, and remembrance.
The central event involves a boat procession on the pond, with participants dressed in Heian-era costumes. Lanterns light up the surroundings, creating an ethereal glow. At the Uneme Festival, local delicacies take center stage. Particularly popular are the Uneme-inspired sweets, delicate rice cakes, and savory noodle dishes, each reflecting the festival's poignant legacy.
Another intriguing part of the celebration is the traditional dance performance with hauntingly beautiful music, that evokes deep emotions, making it an unforgettable experience for those who attend.
3. Taiko Drum Festival
Narita reverberates with the deep, resonating sounds of Taiko drums during its Taiko Drum Festival, held in April. Taiko drumming is an ancient art form with roots in Japan's religious and cultural ceremonies. The festival in Narita is particularly special as it gathers various Taiko groups from across the country, each bringing its unique style and rhythm.
The powerful performances are a treat for the senses. As drummers beat in sync, their energy is palpable, enveloping the audience in a rhythmic embrace.
For tourists, it's not merely a musical experience but a deep dive into the history and significance of Taiko drumming in Japan. Workshops are often held alongside, giving attendees a chance to try their hand at this traditional art form.
4. Sawara Grand Festival
Sawara, a historic town in Narita, hosts its Grand Festival twice a year — in July and October. Recognized by UNESCO as a significant intangible folk cultural asset, this festival reflects Sawara's rich history as a prosperous merchant town during the Edo period.
The festival's main attraction is the parade of massive floats, some reaching heights of 4 meters, showcasing intricately carved wooden figures representing Japanese mythological characters.
As the floats navigate through the town's narrow streets, traditional music known as "Sawara Bayashi" plays in the background, lending a celebratory atmosphere. Apart from the parade, visitors can also explore the beautifully preserved historical buildings and canals that give Sawara its nickname: The Little Edo.
5. Omotesando Street’s “Bean-Throwing Festival”
Every February, Narita's famous Omotesando Street comes alive with the Setsubun Festival's vibrant rituals. Setsubun, marking the day before spring according to the Japanese lunar calendar, is an occasion to drive away evil spirits and beckon good fortune.
Participants, including many children dressed in colorful attire, joyously throw roasted soybeans, chanting, "Out with the demons, in with luck!" This act symbolizes cleansing and the ushering in of a prosperous new season.
The event often sees special guests, from celebrities to sumo wrestlers, participating in the bean-throwing. Alongside, Omotesando Street, with its 800-meter stretch of traditional shops and eateries, offers delectable Eho-maki sushi rolls. The special Setsubun sushi is meant to be eaten in silence while facing that year's lucky direction, promising health and fortune.
A Journey Beyond the Obvious
Narita’s festivals are windows to its soul. Each celebration, with its customs, dances, and music, paints a picture of traditions that have been preserved and nurtured over centuries.
To truly experience Narita is to immerse oneself in these festivals, understanding the tales, aspirations, and deep-rooted culture they represent. Travelers are reminded that, sometimes, the most authentic experiences lie just a step beyond the familiar.
