Noto Kiriko Festival: Summer Night's Strange Festival with Giant Lanterns Dancing Wildly

What is the Kiriko Festival?

Noto's Kiriko Festival is the collective name for dozens of festivals held throughout Noto Peninsula in summer to autumn (July-October). "Kiriko" are giant lanterns called "hoto," with some in certain regions reaching 20m tall and weighing several tons.

Magnificent Festival of Carrying Kiriko

At Kiriko festivals, many carriers carry kiriko parading around, dancing magnificently to drum and flute music. Nighttime kiriko shines fantastically lit from inside, coloring Noto's nights. Kiriko festivals in various locations including Udotsu, Suzu, and Wajima each have individual character.

Noto's Kiriko Hall

Wajima City's Kiriko Hall exhibits actual kiriko, allowing experiencing the kiriko's presence even outside festival season. Popular as a facility for touching Noto Peninsula's rich festival culture.