A traditional festival centered on the "Yassa Dance," said to have begun when people celebrated the completion of Mihara Castle built by Kobayakawa Takakage, the third son of Mouri Motonari. Dancers move through the streets to the rhythm of shamisen, drums, and flutes, attracting over 300,000 visitors across three days. The 2026 theme is "Premium True Yassa: Where Tradition and Innovation Intersect." The festival features the "Yassa Fireworks Festa" with approximately 8,000 fireworks launched from the Numata River estuary, including special large shells and 51 large fireworks commemorating the festival's 51st edition. The region's only "danzaki senrin" (tiered blooming thousand wheels) fireworks display is a must-see.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.