The Asagaya Tanabata Festival bustling with crowds.
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The 69th Asagaya Tanabata Festival, famous for its handmade and uniquely crafted haribote (papier-mâché figures), opened on August 7 at the Asagaya Pearl Center shopping street in Suginami Ward, Tokyo. The festivities will run until August 11.
The Tanabata festivals in Sendai and Hiratsuka are renowned for their colorful streamers and traditional decorations. Asagaya adds its own twist. Alongside classic Tanabata ornaments, countless haribote hang from the arcade ceiling, captivating visitors.
A Twist on Tradition
These papier-mâché creations have been a hallmark of the Asagaya festival since its first edition in 1954. At the time, organizers wanted something fresh and different from the usual kusudama (ornamental balls) and streamers. They drew inspiration from the Aomori Nebuta Festival and began producing large, eye-catching haribote.
Since then, shop owners in the district have created imaginative designs each year. Many are modeled after popular characters or reflect current events, adding extra charm to the celebration.
Crowd Favorites
This year's standout is a playful collaboration between Dragon Ball and the comedy duo Asagaya Sisters. On either side of the villain Frieza stand the sisters, dressed in battle armor and wearing scouters. The look recalls Dragon Ball's Zarbon and Dodoria. Visitors eagerly took photos, calling out with delight, "It's the Asagaya Sisters!"
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Author: Ikue Mio, The Sankei Shimbun
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