The Fukushima Waraji Matsuri centres on one of Japan’s more eye-catching festival traditions — an enormous straw sandal (waraji), roughly 12 metres long and weighing around two tonnes, carried through the streets of Fukushima City by hundreds of participants each August. The giant sandal is dedicated to Haguro Shrine as a prayer for healthy legs and feet, echoing an old practice of offering oversized footwear to ward off illness, and is accompanied by energetic dance troupes and drumming through the city’s main avenues.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Fukushima City, Fukushima |
| Hours | Evening, early August |
| Admission | Free to view |
| Time needed | 1.5–2.5 hours |
| Best time | Main parade evening (check exact annual dates) |
What to See
- The 12-metre giant straw sandal, carried by hundreds.
- Energetic dance troupes performing along the parade route.
- Drumming and festive music through Fukushima City’s main streets.
- The sandal’s dedication ceremony at Haguro Shrine.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with a Bandai-Azuma Skyline day trip earlier.
- Pair with Tsuchiyu Onsen for an evening soak after.
- Read our Fukushima overview .
Getting There
- By train: JR Fukushima Station, parade route within walking distance.
- By car: parking limited near the route on festival evening; public transport recommended.
Tips
Arrive early for a good spot along the main parade route, as the giant sandal draws large crowds. The festival has a lively, high-energy atmosphere — a fun evening even without deep knowledge of its history.
