Neburinagashi-kan Kanto Museum @ Akita
Even if you can not see the Kanto Festival in person, you can learn about the history and see many examples in the Kanto Museum, only a 10-minute walk west of the JR Akita Station. There are films from the festival, and from April 18 to October 25 there are live performances on weekends. You can even try your hand at lifting one of the poles yourself.
“Neburi-nagashi” is Japanese for “washing away sleepiness.” It is the correct name for the Kanto poles. The meaning may derive from the Obon custom of washing yourself 7 times to rid your body of evil spirits, which are able to enter when you sleep.
The museum is open from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. It only costs 100 to visit, and is a good addition to any trip to Akita.
