Experience the Traditional Nebuta Festival at FANCL Ginza Square

FANCL Ginza Square Hosts an Engaging Nebuta Festival Exhibition

FANCL Ginza Square, the flagship store of FANCL Corporation located in the heart of Tokyo, is excited to announce a unique exhibition celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Nebuta (or Neputa) festival. This event aligns with Matsuya's Regional Co-Creation Project, which aims to connect traditional Japanese culture with future generations. The exhibition runs from June 17 to August 18, showcasing stunning lanterns and fans created from artwork used in the famous "Kingyo Neputa" and "Kuroishi Nebuta Festival."

Understanding the Festivals: Nebuta vs. Neputa

The Nebuta and Neputa festivals are celebrated across Aomori Prefecture, each with its own distinct characteristics. The terminology varies based on the location, where "Nebuta" refers to the decorations used during the festival. FANCL is committed to its sustainable declaration, striving to facilitate community development projects through various endeavors at FANCL Ginza Square.

Starting in December 2020, Matsuya embarked on a mission to preserve Japan’s diverse traditional crafts and cultures by launching the Regional Co-Creation Project. This initiative not only integrates genuine craftsmanship into the store’s decor but also features installations that engage visitors and promote local traditions across the nation to achieve sustainable and cyclical development. This collaboration marks the third year of their partnership, with previous projects highlighting traditions such as indigo dyeing from Tokushima and Tsugaru Kokeshi from Kuroishi City.

Special Displays and Engaging Experiences

The exhibition features captivating displays made from reused festival artwork and decor previously seen at Matsuya Ginza. Visitors will find a designated photo spot on the first floor where they can snap vibrant pictures with a Kingyo Nebuta backdrop, holding fans crafted from traditional artworks.

Furthermore, in an effort to connect the present with future generations, the third floor FANCL shop will house a special exhibit detailing the history of the Tohoku's three major festivals, including the Aomori Nebuta festival.

The Aomori Nebuta Festival: A Cultural Highlight

Recognized as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset by the Japanese government, the Aomori Nebuta Festival is among the three major festivals in Tohoku. Its origins can be traced back to the Nara period, evolving from the Chinese Tanabata Festival's lantern floating customs. Each August, enormous lanterns called "nebuta" are paraded through the streets, with energetic dancers, known as Haneto, performing lively jumps while chanting “Rassera!” to invigorate the festival atmosphere. The festival typically takes place from August 2 to 7 every year.

Special Gifts to Celebrate Traditional Culture

Kirin Beverage Corporation has been actively supporting summer festivals in Tohoku, producing drinks with special labels featuring traditional festival illustrations. For the sixth consecutive year, proceeds from each sold bottle are donated to various prefectures in Tohoku. To celebrate this year’s Aomori Nebuta Festival-themed initiative, Kirin is providing FANCL Ginza Square with 500ml PET bottles of "Kirin Afternoon Tea Unsweetened" adorned with a festival design label.

- Distribution Criteria: Customers spending 1,000 yen or more at FANCL Ginza Square will receive one bottle (limited to one per person).
- Distribution Date: August 2 (Saturday) until supplies last.
- Locations: Available on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, and 6th floors of FANCL Ginza Square.

Visit FANCL Ginza Square

Experience the vibrancy of traditional culture at FANCL Ginza Square:

- Hours: 11 AM to 8 PM (varies by floor)
- Access: 1-minute walk from Ginza Station A3 Exit (Tokyo Metro Ginza, Hibiya, and Marunouchi Lines) or 8-minute walk from JR Yurakucho Station Ginza Exit.
- Location: 5-8-16 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo, 104-0061
- Closure: Open year-round, except for January 1.

Join us in celebrating the beautiful traditions of Japan while connecting with the community!