Fukushima Waraji Festival

The Fukushima Waraji Festival is a summer tradition held every early August in Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture. The festival's biggest feature is the parade of Japan's largest straw sandal, measuring 12 meters long and 1.4 meters wide, through the city streets.

The origin of the festival dates back over 400 years to the Edo period, to the winter Shinto ritual 'Shinobu Sanzan Akatsuki Mairi.' In Akatsuki Mairi, a giant straw sandal for one foot is dedicated in winter, while at the Fukushima Waraji Festival, the sandal for the other foot is dedicated, praying for even stronger legs.

Today, the festival is not only for praying for strong legs, but also for good health, a good harvest, family safety, and business prosperity, making it one of Fukushima City's representative summer festivals.

The roots of the Fukushima Waraji Festival are in the 'Shinobu Sanzan Akatsuki Mairi' held every February. This Shinto ritual is a traditional event that has continued for over 400 years since the Edo period, where a 12-meter-long giant straw sandal is dedicated.

The origin of the giant straw sandal is said to come from making and dedicating a sandal matching the size of the Nio guardian statue enshrined at the Nio Gate of Haguro Shrine in the past. Later, people began dedicating sandals to pray for strong legs and safe travels before embarking on long journeys.

The current Fukushima Waraji Festival began in 1970, organized by Fukushima City and the Fukushima Chamber of Commerce and Industry. While Akatsuki Mairi dedicates a sandal for one foot in winter, the summer festival dedicates the sandal for the other foot, with the aim of praying for even stronger legs.

The Fukushima Waraji Festival is held every year from the first Friday to Sunday in August. In 2025, it is scheduled for August 1st to 3rd.

The detailed schedule is as follows:

• August 1st & 2nd: Main Festival (Waraji Dance & Giant Straw Sandal Parade)
• August 3rd: Giant Straw Sandal Dedication (Shinobuyama Haguro Shrine)

The main festival is usually held from 6:30 pm to around 9:00 pm.

The main festival takes place from Shinobu Street on National Route 13 to Ekimae Street in central Fukushima City. Specifically, the main venue stretches from around Fukushima Shinkin Bank Head Office to around Seven-Eleven Fukushima Sakaemachi Store.

The giant straw sandal dedication is held at Haguro Shrine on Mt. Shinobu. The venue is about a 5-minute walk from Fukushima Station, making it very accessible.

The biggest highlight of the Fukushima Waraji Festival is Japan's largest straw sandal, measuring 12 meters long, 1.4 meters wide, and weighing about 2 tons. About 3,000 bundles of rice straw are used, and it is handmade over two weeks.

The giant straw sandal is carried by about 100 people, parading through the city with energetic shouts of 'Wasshoi! Wasshoi!' Its powerful presence overwhelms the audience and is the festival's main highlight.

The Waraji Dance is a traditional dance performed to the 'Waraji Ondo' composed by Yuji Koseki.

Dancers hold rings of straw called 'Warano-wa' in both hands and perform dances with distinctive lower body movements symbolizing strong legs. The sight of participants from companies and groups dancing in colorful costumes adds vibrancy to the festival.

During the festival, many food stalls line Shinobu Street, offering classic festival foods like yakisoba, takoyaki, and shaved ice, as well as dishes made with Fukushima's local specialties. Fukushima is also known for its fruit, so sweets and juices made with peaches and apples are popular. There are also workshops for making straw sandals and 'Warano-wa,' allowing participants to experience the festival's traditions. At the Waraji Dance class, anyone can learn the dance and have a chance to join the parade.

The Fukushima Waraji Festival venue is easily accessible by public transportation.

If coming by train, the main venue is about a 5-minute walk from JR Fukushima Station. Fukushima Station is served by the Tohoku Shinkansen, JR Ou Main Line, and Abukuma Express Line, providing convenient access from various directions.

If coming by car, it takes about 15 minutes from Fukushima Nishi IC or Fukushima Iizaka IC on the Tohoku Expressway. However, please note that traffic restrictions will be in place during the festival.

• Arrive Early: The Giant Straw Sandal Parade and Waraji Dance are very popular, so arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
• Dress Comfortably: August in Fukushima is hot, so wear light, comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun with a hat and sunscreen. Don't forget to stay hydrated.
• Join a Workshop: Participate in straw sandal making, 'Warano-wa' making, or Waraji Dance classes to deeply experience the festival's culture.
• Consider Paid Viewing Seats: Paid seats are ideal for enjoying the festival comfortably. Tickets can be purchased via CN Playguide.
• Enjoy Local Gourmet: Savor Fukushima's local specialties and dishes at the food stalls and fully enjoy the region's charm.

• Q: How can I participate in the festival?
  A: Participation in the festival is free, but workshops and paid seats require advance reservation or ticket purchase. Please check the official website for details.
• Q: Is there parking available?
  A: There are paid parking lots around the venue, but as it is expected to be crowded, public transportation is recommended.
• Q: Are there food stalls?
  A: Yes, there are many food stalls along Shinobu Street, offering yakisoba, takoyaki, and gourmet foods made with Fukushima's local specialties.
• Q: Can families with children enjoy the festival?
  A: Yes, there are many family-friendly events such as straw sandal making and Waraji Dance classes. There are also many food stalls for children, making it a festival friendly to families.

For the latest information and details about the Fukushima Waraji Festival, please visit the official website.

• Fukushima Waraji Festival Official Website
  • https://www.waraji.co.jp
  • Paid seat reservation: https://www.cnplayguide.com/waraji