Fukushima Waraji Festival: A Soulful Celebration of Straw Sandals, Tradition, and Togetherness

What Is the Fukushima Waraji Festival?

Every August, the city of Fukushima transforms into a hub of energy and color for the Fukushima Waraji Festival—a spirited celebration centered around a rather unexpected cultural symbol: the waraji, a giant straw sandal. But this isn’t just about footwear. The waraji represents protection, strength, and unity, rooted in centuries-old customs that honor both local identity and divine blessing.

Held at Shinobuyama Park and through the streets near Fukushima Station, this vibrant summer festival is among the Tohoku region’s most beloved events, blending spiritual tradition, communal joy, and high-energy performances.

The Origins: Why a Festival Around a Straw Sandal?

The waraji sandal, made from braided rice straw, was historically worn by monks, travelers, and warriors across Japan. But in Fukushima’s Haguro Shrine, a sacred waraji is offered to the deity as a symbol of safe travels, strong legs, and perseverance.

In 1970, inspired by this tradition, locals began the Waraji Festival (Waraji Matsuri) to honor this sacred sandal with a contemporary twist—bringing together traditional worship with parades, dance, and music, turning it into a summer spectacle that preserves culture while inviting innovation.

Highlights of the Waraji Festival

The Giant Waraji Procession

• At the heart of the celebration is the 12-meter-long, 2-ton straw sandal paraded through the city. Dozens of people pull it on floats while chanting and dancing—a moving symbol of community strength. It’s a reenactment of the traditional offering made to Haguro Shrine but amplified to involve everyone, from children to elders.

Waraji Odori (Straw Sandal Dance)

• One of the most iconic sights is the synchronized Waraji Odori, where thousands of dancers—dressed in colorful yukata and happi coats—perform choreographed routines along the streets. It’s not only visually spectacular but also a moment of intergenerational bonding, as both young and old move together to rhythmic drumbeats.

Taiko Drumming & Street Performances

• The festival is filled with the pulse of taiko drumming, street music, and open-air stages showcasing regional folk arts. These elements enhance the festival’s immersive vibe, encouraging both locals and tourists to participate, not just observe.

Nighttime Illumination & Fireworks

• As evening falls, lantern-lit floats and the warm glow of the straw sandal add a magical atmosphere. Fireworks often light up the sky, symbolizing hope and spiritual cleansing, a common theme in Japanese summer festivals.

Cultural & Spiritual Significance

While the festival has modern, entertaining elements, its spiritual roots remain intact. The giant waraji is a votive object—a symbolic act of devotion for good health, safe travels, and overcoming hardship. Offering such a sandal is believed to appease the gods and bring prosperity to the region.

The act of dancing together also carries a cleansing effect, spiritually and socially, as it strengthens community ties, heals emotional wounds, and celebrates resilience—something deeply resonant in a region that experienced natural disasters in recent decades.

How the Festival Has Evolved

Originally held at Haguro Shrine, the event has now expanded into a city-wide celebration, involving schools, businesses, and international guests. In recent years, it has also embraced sustainability by using eco-friendly materials and reviving straw craftsmanship, an endangered traditional art.

There’s also a push to make it more inclusive—with international dance troupes, English-language guides, and global music acts adding a modern, multicultural edge to a deeply traditional event.

Why You Should Attend

The Fukushima Waraji Festival is more than just a regional event—it's a cultural dialogue between past and present, religion and entertainment, and local identity and global curiosity. Whether you’re a cultural traveler, spiritual seeker, or festival enthusiast, you’ll walk away with

• A deep appreciation of Japanese folk rituals

• First-hand experience of community resilience

• Joy from the music, dance, and human connection

Practical Information for Visitors

• Location: Fukushima City, primarily around Fukushima Station and Shinobuyama Park

• Dates: First weekend of August (usually Friday to Sunday)

• Admission: Free (some paid seats for performances may be available)

• Access: 90 minutes from Tokyo by Tohoku Shinkansen

• Tips:

  • Wear comfortable shoes (lots of walking!)

  • Bring a fan or towel—August in Japan is hot

  • Arrive early to grab a good viewing spot for parades

  • Stay till night for the lanterns and fireworks

Where to Stay in Fukushima

Fukushima offers a variety of accommodations, from budget hotels to ryokan inns.

Popular Hotel Choices:

• Hotel Mets Fukushima—Connected to Fukushima Station; modern & convenient

• The Celecton Fukushima—Clean, affordable, close to festival routes

• Richmond Hotel Fukushima Ekimae—Excellent service and family-friendly

• Bandai Atami Onsen (just outside the city)—For a relaxing hot spring experience

Tip: Book at least 1–2 months in advance, as the festival draws large crowds.

What and Where to Eat

Festival Street Food

• Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers)

• Okonomiyaki (savory pancakes)

• Kakigōri (shaved ice with syrup)—ideal for cooling down!

• Local sake & craft beer booths

Must-Try Fukushima Specialties

• Fukushima Ramen—A unique soy-based variety, often served with thicker noodles

• Momo (Peaches)—Fukushima is one of Japan’s top peach producers

• Kozuyu—A traditional clear soup with mushrooms, konnyaku, and carrots

Language & Connectivity

• Language: Japanese is the primary language. English signage is limited, but locals are friendly and welcoming.

• Connectivity: Rent a pocket Wi-Fi or use eSIM for data. Free public Wi-Fi is available at major train stations and some festival zones.

Phrase Tip

• "Waraji matsuri wa doko desu ka?" = “Where is the Waraji Festival?”

Traveling with Children or Elders

• Stroller- and wheelchair-accessible zones are available, especially near Shinobuyama Park.

• Some festival areas get crowded; plan early arrival and carry foldable seating.

• Public toilets and baby care rooms are set up temporarily during the festival.

The Fukushima Waraji Festival isn’t just about straw sandals—it’s about how culture, faith, and joy can be passed down, remixed, and relived each year. In the movement of every dance, the chanting of the crowds, and the slow, reverent pull of the waraji float, you feel a city’s heartbeat echoing with history, gratitude, and hope.

So next summer, when the streets of Fukushima begin to pulse with rhythm and the waraji once again takes its ceremonial stroll—be there. Join the dance. Walk with tradition. Step into the soul of Japan.

Fuel our creativity with a cup of coffee! ☕️❤️❤️❤️