Sendai Tanabata Festival（Miyagi）

The **Sendai Tanabata Festival**, held every year from **August 6th to 8th** in Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, is one of the **largest and most famous Tanabata festivals in Japan**. The streets of the city are beautifully decorated with **colorful streamers**, and the event draws over **2 million visitors** annually. ### Origin of Tanabata Tanabata is a traditional Japanese festival based on a Chinese legend about **Orihime (the weaver star)** and **Hikoboshi (the cowherd star)**, two lovers separated by the Milky Way who are allowed to meet only once a year, on the night of Tanabata. ### Highlights ### Spectacular Decorations The main attraction is the **hundreds of large, handcrafted streamers** that hang from bamboo poles throughout the shopping streets. In total, **thousands of Tanabata decorations** can be seen across the city. Made from colorful paper and washi, the streamers create a magical atmosphere like a river of stars flowing through the city. ### Fireworks on the Eve On the evening of **August 5th**, a large-scale **fireworks display** called the *Sendai Tanabata Fireworks Festival* is held near the Hirose River. It serves as a prelude to the main festival and lights up the night sky in a breathtaking spectacle. ### Local Culture and Food During the festival, visitors can enjoy Sendai's local specialties such as **gyutan (grilled beef tongue)** and **zunda mochi (sweet soybean rice cakes)** from street stalls and local shops, adding to the lively summer festival atmosphere. ### Why You Should Visit - Take stunning photos of vibrant, artistic decorations - Experience a unique blend of **traditional culture** and **modern city life** - Enjoy friendly hospitality and connect with local people The Sendai Tanabata Festival is a celebration full of tradition, beauty, and community spirit. If you're visiting Japan in summer, this is a must-see event!