CHIAYI, Taiwan – A prominent illuminated festival float from the Nebuta Festival in Aomori, located in northeastern Japan, took part in the Taiwan Lantern Festival on Saturday, marking the first time a float of this kind has been created overseas in 25 years.
Artisans Hiromi Hayashi, 57, and Makoto Suwa, 47, collaborated to create the float showcasing the goddess Puzih Mazu, working in Taiwan from late January. They opened the construction site to the local community, providing a glimpse into the artistry involved in the large paper creation.
Approximately 50 individuals, such as “haneto” performers, were transported from Aomori to join the festival, with attendees coming to watch and capture images of the event.
“We performed well. This is the genuine nebuta,” Hayashi stated.
Suwa stated, “Touring the temples allowed us to develop a stronger perception (of the float).”
The most recent instance of a major Nebuta float being constructed outside of Japan took place at the British Museum in London in 2001.
The Aomori Nebuta festival is a significant summer event in Japan’s Tohoku area, drawing large crowds with its massive illuminated lantern floats that are displayed and marched through Aomori city.
The Taiwan Lantern Festival commenced on Tuesday and will continue until March 15.
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