Iida City and Puppet Theater: World's Largest Puppet Theater Capital, Shinshu Iida

Japan's Number One Puppet Theater Town

Iida City is located in southern Nagano, nationally known as "Japan's puppet theater mecca." Puppet theater culture has long taken root in Iida City with puppet theater production, performance, and viewing active. Puppet theater is incorporated as part of classes at city elementary schools.

Iida Puppet Theater Festa

Iida City holds the "Iida Puppet Theater Festa" once every 3 years. An international puppet theater festival with many puppet troupes participating from Japan and abroad, with performances at various venues throughout Iida City.

Iida Nature and Culture

Iida City is a city rich in nature surrounded by Southern Alps and Ina Valley, with highlights including the apple avenue in central city known as "Wisdom Ring Apple Avenue" and historical spots including Iida Castle and castle tower platform.