08/09/2026
Due to the impact of the 2026 Kumamoto Earthquake, many programs of the Yamaga Lantern Festival, held on August 15 and 16 2026, were cancelled. Only the Yamaga Toro Festival, the annual festival of Omiya Shrine, was held. While events such as the Summer Fireworks Display, the 1,000 Lantern Dance, and performances at the festival plaza were cancelled, the lanterns and traditions that the people of Yamaga have carefully preserved were quietly carried on, with wishes for peace and recovery in the community.
At the shrine grounds, the “Hono Lantern Dance” was performed by the Yamaga Lantern Dance Preservation Society, with dancers holding gold lanterns above their heads. Accompanied by the sounds of shamisen and traditional folk songs, the performance created a magical and atmospheric scene. A powerful taiko drum performance by the Yamaga Taiko Preservation Society was also held, creating a solemn and meaningful atmosphere centered around the shrine, quite different from the lively festivities of previous years.
On August 16, the “Agari Toro” procession took place, in which lanterns were brought from each neighborhood to Omiya Shrine. A total of 26 lanterns were dedicated, beautifully illuminating the shrine grounds. At nearby Omiya Park, the “Toro Night Market” was also held, allowing visitors to enjoy a taste of the summer festival alongside the religious ceremonies and dedication performances. Donation boxes were placed at each stall, and many visitors contributed in support of the recovery and reconstruction efforts following the earthquake. The illuminated worship hall of Omiya Shrine quietly captured the unique atmosphere of Yamaga’s summer this year.
Although the festival was scaled back due to the impact of the earthquake, it became an occasion to carry Yamaga’s history and culture into the future, while conveying wishes for a swift recovery to the affected areas through fundraising activities. For those who would like to learn more about the history of Yamaga lanterns and the craftsmanship behind them, a visit to the Yamaga Lantern Folk Art Museum offers an opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation of the meaning behind the lanterns and traditions preserved through this year’s festival.
The photos show scenes from previous editions of the Yamaga Lantern Festival.
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