Events in Yamagata

Uesugi Snow Lantern Festival

Light up a cold winter's day with this lantern festival.

Kasedori Festival

This unique festival gets its name from the straw coats worn by the participants.

Zao Snow Monster Festival

While most snow festivals feature man-made sculptures, the snow monsters of Zao are entirely natural.

Sakata Festival

See giant lion head floats and unique wheeled floats.

Yamagata Hanagasa Festival

Celebrate the Yamagata Hanagasa Festival, where over 10,000 dancers in vibrant attire bring the streets of Yamagata to life with traditional music and mesmerizing performances.

Shinjo Festival

Elaborate floats, portable shrines, judo, archery, and traditional dances — Yamagata's three-day Shinjo Festival is worth attending.