Japanese lanterns

Japanese lanterns

　　Japanese lanterns are a distinctive product of Japan. Making a lantern begins with constructing a wooden frame, which is then covered with colored paper or cloth. The lanterns are very large, with some reaching heights of about five to six meters. They are fitted with numerous electric lights inside, and a single lantern can weigh anywhere from a few hundred pounds to several thousand kilograms. Crafting a lantern typically takes several months.

　　The Aomori Lantern Festival is held annually from August 2nd to 7th, starting around 7:00 PM each evening. Once the host announces the beginning of the festival, the sounds of drums, bamboo flutes, and gongs fill the air. Performers shout slogans as they push giant lanterns of various shapes toward the crowd, followed by traditional Japanese taiko drummers and bamboo flute bands. Dancers wearing floral hats perform graceful movements. At this time, streets are filled with people of all ages dressed in traditional Japanese yukata, adorned with small bells and ornaments that jingle as they walk. The yukata is the festive attire of the lantern festival. Unlike other regional festivals, the Aomori Lantern Festival allows anyone dressed in festival clothing to join the parade at any time.