Written by JC Team
Watch Noto come alive in a thrilling spectacle of fire, violence, and tradition as shrines are paraded and destroyed to honor the gods.
What happens?
Held every summer in the Ushitsu area of the Noto Peninsula, the Abare Festival is a fiery spectacle.
Originating 350 years ago after a plague was eradicated, this boisterous festival honors Gozu Tenno with fiery rituals, including the destruction of portable shrines (mikoshi) and a parade of lantern floats (kiriko). According to local legend, Gozu Tenno saved the town by sending a giant bee whose sting cured the disease.
Schedule
The Abare Matsuri is held annually on the first Friday and Saturday of July. The Friday has two processions, one starting at 2 p.m., heading towards Hakusan Shrine and one starting at 9 p.m., heading towards Iyasaka Square. On Saturday, there is also a parade at 2 p.m., but the main event goes from 8:30 p.m. until a very early 2 a.m.
How to get there
Haneda Airport operates two round-trip flights per day to Noto Satoyama Airport.
Yasaka Shrine, where the festival takes place, is a 30-minute drive from Noto Toll Road Konogi I.C. Keep in mind that public transportation in Noto is limited.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.