🎎 Tottori Kankankai Festival鳥取しゃんしゃん祭

The traditional performing art "Inaba Kasamawashi" from the eastern part of Tottori Prefecture has been adapted into a dance that everyone can easily participate in, known for its "Kankankasa" umbrellas, leading to the famous "Tottori Kankankasai." Held in mid-August each year, it has become a summer tradition in Tottori City. The festival takes place over three days from August 13 to 15, with the "Issai Kasamawashi" on August 14 being the centerpiece of the event. Over 4,000 dancers take to the main streets of the city, holding "Kankankasa," which are umbrellas made with bamboo frames covered in washi paper, and perform dazzling dance steps. The umbrellas are adorned with small bells that jingle during key dance movements, creating a refreshing atmosphere that is a hallmark of the Kankankasai. Since 2006, the festival has transitioned from using Kankankasa to wooden boards shaped like rice scoops, called "Suzuko," which are also equipped with bells, allowing for more freedom in movement with the "Suzuko Dance." The final day of the festival concludes with a citizens' summer fireworks display, where colorful and vibrant fireworks light up the summer night sky.

The largest summer festival in Tottori City is a well-known summer tradition. It challenges the Guinness World Record with the "World's Largest Umbrella Dance." The "Kankyo Umbrella," held with bells, will take to the streets for the "Everyone Dance the Umbrella Dance," promising an exciting performance. The "Suzuko Dance," showcasing a unique style with bells, is also highly anticipated. On the final day, a cool summer fireworks festival will be held, featuring a spectacular display of fireworks.