The fireworks show is the highlight of the Otaru Ushio Festival.
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4.1 What is Ushio Nerikomi? The Ushio Nerikomi is a lively dance parade where hundreds of participants move along the streets in colorful costumes.
This tradition started as a way to express gratitude to the sea and to celebrate the spirit of the community.
✅ Features:
Groups of locals and companies dance in teams.
Traditional music and drums set the rhythm.
Visitors are welcome to join in the “Flying Squad” (Tobiiri ), an open group for first-time participants.
4.2 How to Join as a Visitor One of the most exciting aspects of the festival is that anyone can join the dance without prior experience .
🎯 Steps to Join:
Go to the Flying Squad reception tent on the day of the parade.
Located near the main stage or Central Street.
Register your name and group size.
Receive a participation badge or tag.
Join the group at the designated time.
✅ No reservation needed , but spots can fill up, so arrive early in the evening.
💡 Tip: The atmosphere is friendly and beginners are encouraged to just follow along.
4.3 What to Wear and Bring 👘 Recommended Clothing:
Yukata (summer kimono) if you’d like to blend in with locals.
Comfortable clothes and shoes are perfectly fine.
Avoid high heels or flip-flops.
🎒 What to Bring:
Water and a towel
Light bag or waist pouch (keep hands free)
A smile and an open mind!
✨ Tip: The dance is simple—just watch those in front and repeat the steps.
5. Mikoshi Parade – Experience the Traditional Spirit Mikoshi 5.1 Overview of the Mikoshi Parade The Mikoshi Parade is a dynamic event where participants carry heavy portable shrines (mikoshi ) through the streets.
This ritual is a way to honor the local deities and bless the community .
✅ Highlights:
Each mikoshi weighs around 400 kg (880 lbs) .
Participants wear traditional happi coats.
Powerful chants and drumbeats fill the streets.
5.2 How Foreigners Can Participate or Watch You can choose to watch or join the Mikoshi Parade.
🎯 To Join as a Participant:
Generally, you need to register in advance.
Some groups welcome individual visitors—check with the festival office.
Participants should be in good health and have basic fitness.
✅ How to Watch:
Stand along Central Street or near Otaru Port.
The parade usually takes place on the final day of the festival .
Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
💡 Tip: Even if you don’t carry the mikoshi, cheering and taking photos are part of the experience!
5.3 Safety and Etiquette While the parade is festive, safety is very important .
⚠️ If you join as a carrier:
Follow instructions from the group leaders.
Keep a steady pace.
Do not push or pull suddenly.
If you feel tired or unwell, step aside and rest.
✅ For spectators:
Stay behind safety lines.
Be mindful when taking photos.
Respect the space of the participants.
6. Food Stalls and Local Cuisine Yakitori
6.1 Popular Festival Foods to Try No festival in Japan is complete without delicious street food! 🍢✨
During the Otaru Ushio Festival, dozens of food stalls line the streets offering tasty treats.
✅ Must-Try Foods:
Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers)Takoyaki (octopus balls)Okonomiyaki (savory pancake)Ikayaki (grilled squid – Otaru’s specialty)Shaved ice and festival sweets
💡 Tip: Many vendors accept cash only, so bring small bills and coins.
6.2 Vegetarian and Halal Options While many dishes include meat or seafood, some options are vegetarian-friendly .
✅ Vegetarian Choices:
Grilled corn (yaki tomorokoshi )
French fries
Shaved ice (kakigori )
Sweet pancakes
For halal needs, note that most stalls do not have certification , but packaged drinks and simple vegetable dishes are usually available.
6.3 Tips for Eating at the Festival 🎯 Eating Etiquette:
Avoid walking while eating—find a spot to stop.
Use trash bins provided near the stalls.
Be patient—lines can be long, especially in the evening.
✅ For Families:
Bring wet wipes and extra water.
Some seating areas are available near the main stage.
✨ Tip: The festival atmosphere makes everything taste extra special!
7. Accommodation Options 7.1 Hotels with Views of the Fireworks If you want to watch the fireworks from your room, some hotels offer great views over Otaru Port .
🏨 Recommended Hotels:
Grand Park Otaru
Located by the sea with rooms overlooking the port.
Hotel Sonia Otaru
Near the canal and walking distance to the festival site.
💡 Tip: These hotels fill up months in advance during the festival weekend. Reserve as early as possible.
7.2 Budget-Friendly Stays Near the Festival If you’re traveling on a budget, Otaru has many affordable options.
✅ Options to Consider:
Business hotels near Otaru Station (e.g., Dormy Inn Otaru)
Guesthouses and hostels
Vacation rentals (minpaku )
Many places are within a 10–15 minute walk to the festival area.
7.3 Booking Tips for Peak Season 🎯 Important Tips:
July is peak season—book at least 2–3 months ahead .
Check cancellation policies carefully.
If hotels in Otaru are full, consider staying in Sapporo and taking the train (about 35–45 minutes).
✅ Useful Booking Sites:
Booking.com
Rakuten Travel
Japanican
✨ Tip: Some hotels offer special festival plans that include meal packages or reserved seating for the fireworks.
8. Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors 8.1 What to Pack for the Festival ✅ Essentials:
Comfortable walking shoes
Light jacket (evenings can be cool)
Portable fan or towel
Cash in small bills
Water bottle
✨ Tip: Otaru can be humid in July—dress in light, breathable clothes.
8.2 Cultural Etiquette and Manners When joining or watching the festival, respect local customs to enjoy the experience fully.
🎯 Etiquette Tips:
Do not push or cut lines.
Avoid loud conversations during ceremonies.
Always throw trash in designated bins.
If joining the dance or carrying the mikoshi, follow staff instructions carefully.
✅ Participating Respectfully:
Be polite to other participants.
Smile and enjoy the atmosphere—locals appreciate positive energy!
8.3 Staying Safe in the Crowds The festival is very popular, and crowds can be intense, especially during fireworks.
✅ Safety Tips:
Keep valuables in a secure pouch or money belt.
If traveling with children, hold hands at all times.
Arrange a meeting point in case you get separated.
Stay hydrated and take breaks in shaded areas.
💡 Tip: Emergency services and first-aid tents are available around the venue if needed.
9. Frequently Asked Questions 9.1 Can I join the dance without a reservation? ✅ Yes!
You can join the Ushio Nerikomi dance as a walk-in participant.
🎯 How:
Visit the “Flying Squad” (Tobiiri ) reception tent on the day of the event.
Register your name.
Follow staff instructions.
💡 Tip: Arrive early in the evening to secure your spot.
9.2 Are English signs and support available? ✅ Partially.
Many signs around the festival area are in Japanese, but:
Major spots have some English signage.
Staff often speak basic English.
The Otaru Tourist Information Center provides English assistance.
✅ Tip:
Download a translation app and prepare basic phrases to help you communicate.
9.3 What if it rains? ✅ The festival usually continues in light rain.
However, fireworks or parades may be delayed or canceled in heavy rain or strong winds.
🎯 What to Do:
Bring a raincoat or poncho (umbrellas can be hard to use in crowds).
Check the festival’s official website or social media for updates.
9.4 Can I bring my own food and drinks? ✅ Yes!
You can bring snacks, drinks, and even picnic meals.
💡 Tip: Be sure to take your trash home or use the bins provided.
9.5 Is the festival family-friendly? ✅ Absolutely!
The Otaru Ushio Festival is a great experience for all ages.
👨👩👧👦 Family Tips:
Arrive early to avoid crowds.
Bring extra water and snacks.
Consider ear protection for young children during fireworks.
10. Summary – Make the Most of the Otaru Ushio Festival The Otaru Ushio Festival is one of Hokkaido’s most exciting summer events, blending traditional culture, community spirit, and spectacular fireworks .
Whether you want to dance in the parade, carry a mikoshi, or simply watch the festivities , you’ll find a warm welcome and unforgettable memories.
Quick Recap of Tips: ✅ Plan Ahead:
Book accommodation early (2–3 months in advance).
Check the festival schedule.
✅ Join the Fun:
You can participate in the Ushio Nerikomi dance without prior experience.
Some groups also accept mikoshi participants—just be sure to register in advance.
✅ Stay Comfortable:
Dress for warm weather but bring a light jacket for evenings.
Use comfortable shoes and pack essentials like water and towels.
✅ Be Respectful:
Follow local customs.
Smile and enjoy sharing the celebration with locals.
🎇 Ready to experience a real Japanese summer festival?
The Otaru Ushio Festival is waiting for you with open arms.
Bring your curiosity, your camera, and your sense of adventure!
Have a wonderful time in Otaru!
