Fukushima Travel – Sendai Tanabata Festival

From August 6 to 8, 2025, the vibrant city of Sendai in Miyagi Prefecture, part of Japan’s beautiful Tohoku region, was transformed into a living canvas of color, tradition, and celebration for the Sendai Tanabata Festival. On August 7, we captured the streets at their most spectacular—thousands of brilliant paper streamers swaying in the summer breeze, intricate origami cranes and kimono-shaped crafts hanging from bamboo poles, and the warm laughter of visitors from across Japan and abroad.

The Sendai Tanabata Festival is rooted in the romantic legend of Orihime and Hikoboshi, the star-crossed lovers who meet only once a year. While Tanabata is celebrated throughout Japan, Sendai’s version is the largest and most visually impressive, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors every summer. Each shopping arcade is lined with enormous decorations, some reaching up to 10 meters in length, lovingly crafted by local artisans, shop owners, and community groups. Every color and design carries a wish—prosperity for businesses, good health for families, and peace for the world.

Walking through Sendai during this Japan summer festival tour is like stepping into a dream. The air is filled with the scent of festival foods such as beef tongue skewers, zunda mochi, and yakitori. Street performers play traditional music, children in yukata write their wishes on colorful tanzaku strips, and local volunteers share the history of Tanabata with travelers.

In the evenings, the festival atmosphere becomes even more magical. Lanterns illuminate the arcades, casting a warm glow over the decorations, while fireworks burst over the city skyline. For travelers joining Deep Japan Tours, the Sendai Tanabata Festival can be combined with visits to Fukushima, Matsushima Bay, or the historical temples of the Tohoku region—creating a cultural itinerary rich in history, beauty, and unforgettable memories.

Beyond its visual splendor, the festival is a testament to the resilience and community spirit of Sendai. After the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011, the event became a symbol of hope and renewal, drawing even more visitors eager to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Tohoku people.

📍 Location: Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan

📅 Dates: August 6–8, 2025 (Photos taken August 7)

https://www.sendaitanabata.com/