Written by Aarohi
Head to the Yamaguchi Tanabata Lantern Festival for one of Japan’s largest lantern festivals, featuring the traditional chochin lantern.
What happens?
The Yamaguchi Tanabata Lantern Festival transforms the city into a sea of lights.
You’ll witness the impressive Chochin Yamakasa parade with lanterns inscribed with poetry, a towering Chochin Tree decorated with 800 lanterns, and the Mini Chochin Tree lit by families and visitors. The festival culminates with the Tsunagaru Oton lantern display. Enjoy traditional performances and plenty of food stalls.
History
The festival has an impressive history spanning approximately 600 years. It dates back to the Muromachi period when Morimi Ouchi, one of the heads of the Ouchi clan that ruled Yamaguchi from the 14th to 16th centuries, lit a high bamboo lantern during Obon to pray for the souls of his ancestors.
Schedule 2026
The Chochin Yamakasa parade will take place fro 6 to 9:30 p.m. on both days.
How to get there
The event takes place around the Yamaguchi City central shopping district. It can be accessed in 5 minutes on foot from JR Yamaguchi Station or 30 minutes by bus from JR Shin-Yamaguchi Station.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.
