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Matobi Festival

"Mantobi," a traditional ceremony to honor the spirits of ancestors

The Matobi Fire Festival is a traditional event held on the middle day of the Spring Equinox.

It is said to have originated from the practice of burning straw in front of graves to honor the spirits of ancestors; the light serves as a guide, and the festival is imbued with the wish that people will return home safely.

At Roadside Station Kamikoani, lively events are held where you can enjoy food stalls and various activities.

Behind the Roadside Station, a collaboration between the Man-tō-ka in the Ozawada settlement and fireworks lights up the winter night sky.

[Matobi Festival Viewing Bus]

The “Lantern Festival Viewing Bus,” operated by the NPO Koani Food, Agriculture, and Tourism Support Team, provides easy-to-understand commentary on the history and charm of the lantern festival! You can view the lantern displays in 12 settlements throughout Kami-Koani Village.

Capacity: 40 people (reservations prioritized; first-come, first-served)

【Lantern Lighting Experience】

Capacity: 10 people (Reservations required)

Deadline:

Reservations for the Viewing Bus and Experience:

Kamikoani Village Industry Division TEL: 0186-77-2223 (Reception hours: Weekdays 8:30 AM–5:15 PM)

[Summary of Lanterns in the Village (Google Maps)]

We have published a Google Maps “My Map” summarizing the locations and lighting times of the lanterns throughout the village.

⇩ Click below for details ⇩

https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/2/edit?mid=1o2UGlpjcmS7bBmIUBkxJlN-eeVI51OQ&usp=sharing

[2026 Event Flyer]

Man-tōka 2026 Flyer (PDF: Click or Tap)

DATA

[Venue] 12 hamlets in Kami-Koani Village, Kitaakita District (66-1 Mukogawara, Ozawada, Kami-Koani Village, Kitaakita District)

【Date and Time】March 21, 2027 (Spring Equinox Day)

[Event Stalls] 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

[Lantern Lighting] 6:10 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

【Contact】Kamikoani Village Industry Division, TEL: 0186-77-2223 (Weekdays 8:30–17:15)

Reservations for the sightseeing bus can also be made using the contact information above.

【Website】https://www.vill.kamikoani.akita.jp/info/169