Written by JC Team
The vibrant Tatemon Festival in Uozu, Toyama, is registered as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. It features spectacular lantern-lit floats, traditional music, and a community celebration of summer.
What happens?
The Tatemon Festival lights up Uozu with its iconic lantern-adorned floats parading through the streets. Tatemon are votive objects used to pray for safety and abundance at sea.
Witness the sight of young men in traditional happi coats pulling 16-meter high Tatemon floats, each adorned with 90 lanterns, from the Uozu coast to Suwa Shrine.
This 300-year-old festival, recognized by UNESCO as Japan’s intangible cultural heritage, celebrates maritime safety and bountiful catches. Highlights include taiko drum performances, local food stalls, and the grand finale of fireworks.
Schedule 2025
The festival takes place on August 1 and 2, starting at 8:30 p.m. The fireworks will be set off on August 2.
How to get there
From Tokyo, you can take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Kurobe-Unazukionsen Station. The one way ride takes approximately two hours. It is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass and Hokuriku Arch Pass. From there, take the Toyama Chiho Railway to Shin-Uozu Station. Alternatively, take a bus headed for Uozu Station. After a 20-minute walk, you’ll arrive at the festival location.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.