Sansa festival is a parade of drummers, flutists and dancers dressed in colorful summer kimonos called yukata, and it takes place every year in Morioka City from August 1st till August 4th. Many companies and schools (including elementary school children) and other organizations make groups which participate in the parade. It is really fun to see all the unique designs and colors of each group’s yukata. Each group consists of dancers, drummers and people playing wooden flutes. The dancers are beautiful with their traditional dance moves. But have you ever seen a gracefully dancing drummer? They move around with ease while playing a drum on their chests.
In the crowded streets, you can see people dressed up in yukata or jinbei (a summer kimono pants and shirt set). Walking around in a bold, colorful yukata gives you a feeling of being part of the festival.
Along the sides of the roads, there are food, drink and toy stands offering something for everyone. No need to worry about cooking dinner. There is traditional fast food like Okonomiyaki (Japanese cabbage and pork pancake), Yakisoba (stir-fried noodles), or have french fries or fried chicken on a stick. You can see young people walking around eating chocolate covered bananas on a stick or kaki-gori (shaved ice in a cup). Or even children trying catching goldfish with a paper net.
Sansa is one of the few festivals where the general public can participate. At the end of the parade, the last few groups will remain on the street and gather in circles. The drummers dance in the center, and the dancers will circle around the drummers. Here anyone can join and try Sansa. Just watch the person in front of you, and after a few rounds, you will slowly learn the moves for the circle dance.
It is amazing the number of people that come and watch Sansa. Fun and excitement for everyone. The catchy drum beat and dance moves linger on in your head. An unforgettable Japanese experience.