Back in August we visited Japan aboard the Diamond Princess cruise ship, whose itinerary stopped at summer festivals across the country. One stop was the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri featuring massive, illuminated paper-mâché floats (nebuta) portraying warriors, demons, and mythical beasts.
By day they parade through the streets; on the final night they’re illuminated and set afloat on the water.
The Aomori Nebuta Wa Rasse Museum preserves some of the most impressive floats from past years. The craftsmanship, colour, and energy are insane!
If you ever find yourself in Aomori, don’t skip this masterpiece of tradition and artistry. Here’s a selection of my favourite shots from the museum.
by mathewbrowne