Every summer, the peaceful hot spring town of Awara in Fukui Prefecture transforms into the stage for one of Japan's most unique and joyfully chaotic festivals. The Awara Yukake Festival is a two-day event where locals and visitors come together to give thanks for the blessings of the town's 74 hot springs, by drenching a mikoshi (portable shrine) with hot spring water.
On the first day, people of all ages grab buckets, ladles, and even water guns to shower the mikoshi with onsen water in a lively display of gratitude and fun. The event reaches its climax in the evening around Awara Yunomachi Station, where floats and taiko drums fill the streets and spectators can join in the splash zone. It's not unusual for the water fight to extend beyond the mikoshi, with friendly soaking battles erupting among the crowd.
The second evening shifts into a more traditional pace, with a folk dance gathering and the throwing of manju, a wedding custom native to Fukui's Reihoku region. Everyone at the venue is welcome to join.
The festival is easy to access and invites spontaneous participation. Beyond the event itself, visitors can explore the area's foot baths, local food stalls, and the charm of a classic onsen town.
Please check the official Awara City tourism site for updates and full event details.
