I have yet to see this festival but I understand it is quite an experience. It is based on a 280-year old historical tradition and consists of more than 20 beautiful floats and three portable shrines from local Shinto shrines. The design of the floats is based on Kabuki theater and fokelore. Their web sites claims that it is Japan’s biggest float parade. Unfortunatly, I don't have times but when I find out I will post them.
The festival is held near Hachinohe city hall.
To get there: go out the POL Gate and at the 12th traffic light, turn left onto the Michinoku Expressway bypass. Pay the ¥200 toll and get a ticket from the attendant. Continue straight past Shimoda Mall and get off at the Kita Hachinoho exit and pay the toll (another ¥150).
Follow the exit road until you come to a traffic light. Turn right at the light and you will be on Route 45. Follow this road for about 6 KM or 8 traffic lights. There will be a McDonald’s on the corner. Turn right. Proceed for 4 traffic lights and turn right again. Then turn left at the next light which is in front of Hon-Hachinohe station. After about three hundred yards, you will take a hard right that takes you along side City Hall. You can park in the pay parking lot there.
