Aoba Ward Festival

Celebrating Sendai's most prominent area

Laura Welch Jan 04, 2015 - 1 min read

<p>One of the big events of the festival is a parade featuring Date Masamune and the other members of the Date Bushotai</p>

<p>A Date Bushotai member poses for photos during a lull in the parade  </p>

<p>An elementary school in the Aoba Ward area has a marching band in the parade</p>

<p>It's not a festival without mascots! The Vlandome shopping arcade's mascot looks cheerful.</p>

<p>Stalls and performances can be found both in the Shimin Hiroba and in Kotodai-koen</p>

<p>There's a lively atmosphere, with lots to see and eat</p>

<p>Local and modern dances mix to form the entertainment on the main stage</p>

<p>A suzume odori group dance, supported by the dance's mascot, Suzunosuke</p>

<p>Kotodai-koen also sees performances, as groups from Aoba showcase their talent and hard work</p>

<p>The fire brigade are citizens of the Aoba area, too</p>

<p>A miniature train offers rides, one of the many activities for children at the festival</p>

<p>A world food bazaar outside City Hall fits in many delicious aromas in a small space</p>

Not to be confused with the Aoba Festival, although they both take place at the Shimin Hiroba/Kotodai-koen, the Aoba Ward Festival takes place every autumn. It's a chance for food vendors and performance groups to showcase their talents, and for locals to enjoy a day out. Mascots abound as everyone makes the most of the crowds to promote and raise awareness.

Apart from food and dances, there's a parade through the shopping arcades and plenty of games and activities for children. It's a day out that anyone can enjoy.

Laura Welch @laura.welch

One of my favourite things about Japan is the wonderful variety of food, and I love to share what I find. When I'm not eating, you might find me singing karaoke or walking around hoping to make new discoveries!