Dragon-themed festivals draw crowds in Akita, Japan

Two major summer festivals in Akita Prefecture featured large dragon displays and attracted large crowds on July 25, 2026. In the town of Misato, the 30th anniversary of the Mita Sand Craft event was celebrated with a 30‑metre "Great Dragon God" sand sculpture at Kamaya Beach. At the same time, the city of Senboku hosted the Tazawa Lake Dragon Festival, where a massive dragon mikoshi floated on the lake amid rain, with participants praying for lake safety, family harmony and good fortune.

Both events highlighted local legends—such as the story of Princess Tatsuko and the dragon Hachirō Tarō—and included stage performances and other cultural activities, reinforcing regional tourism and community traditions.