Aomori Nebuta Museum WA RASSE

Aomori Nebuta Museum WA RASSE

Aomori, Japan2 Jan 2020Written May 20242 min read

What Exactly is a Nebuta?

Nebuta Museum WA RASSE in Aomori, Japan, exuberantly celebrates culture and artistry. Situated in Aomori City, this captivating museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into the colorful Nebuta festivals and their elaborate floats. Seamlessly blending tradition with creativity, it takes visitors on an immersive journey through Aomori’s rich heritage. As visitors explore the museum, they actively engage with the lively atmosphere of the festivals through interactive exhibits and insightful displays. From the moment they step inside, they embark on a journey where tradition meets innovation. It’s an enriching experience that not only educates but also entertains, shining a spotlight on the unique cultural identity of Aomori Prefecture.

Aomori Nebuta Museum
Nebuta display at the entrance

A Nebuta, a traditional Japanese festival held annually in Aomori Prefecture, typically in August, showcases large lantern floats depicting historical or mythical figures. These floats parade through the streets, accompanied by music and dance. Moreover, the festival, a celebration of summer, is believed to ward off evil spirits. Consequently, visitors flock to Aomori to witness the spectacular Nebuta floats and actively participate in the lively festivities.

Immersing in the Cultural Heritage of Aomori

Arriving at the Aomori Nebuta Museum is a breeze. Notably, it’s prominently visible from the JR Aomori Station; you simply can’t miss the large building with red metallic strips. Before delving into the museum experience, we treated ourselves to lunch at a nearby scallop restaurant called Aomori Hotategoya (as of 2024, it is now permanently closed). Given the region’s renowned scallop fishing industry, it seemed fitting to sample this local delicacy firsthand.

Moving on to the museum proper. At the point in time, tickets cost us 620 yen per person. Despite its relatively small size, you can easily explore it in about 45 minutes or so. Initially, our visit was simply to pass time before lunch. However, once we stepped inside, we were amazed by the rich heritage behind these festivals and the colorful, amazing lanterns on display.

Witnessing the creative process unfold, from conception to the vibrant final lantern form, is truly captivating. Each piece embodies meticulous attention to detail and masterful craftsmanship, making them true works of art.

Actual sized lanterns used during the Nebuta festival
Actual sized lanterns used during the Nebuta festival

Information About Aomori Nebuta Museum WA RASSE

The big red building by Aomori Station holds the festival all year: towering nebuta floats, lit from inside, every face fierce and every detail hand-made.

Open in Maps
Nebuta Museum WA RASSE1-1-1 YasukataAomori 030-08039am – 6pm (7pm May–Aug); closed 31 Dec – 1 Jan and 9–10 Augnebuta.jp/warasseChecked May 2024 · may have changed
MIN AND LIANG ★ HOKKAIDO ★ 2019/20 ★SINGAPORE#ML2019Written 2024 · Aomori, Japan
Thu 2 Jan · Under the strait to Aomori