At Hirota Shrine (Nagashima, Aomori City), the illumination of 130 goldfish Nebuta on the large torii gate began on July 25th.

This is the fourth year that the goldfish Nebuta, which is said to bring happiness, will be lit up. During the Aomori Nebuta Festival, many worshipers visit as a photo spot and a place to relax.

It started in 2019 to let people know the charm of goldfish nebuta by praying for the prosperity of the region and the happiness of the people. Ibuki Tagawa, the 17th generation chief priest, said, "Looking at photos from the past, during the Nebuta season, goldfish Nebuta were hung from the eaves of each household. While preserving and spreading Nebuta as a customs culture, I want to enliven Nebuta." .

In addition to the goldfish Nebuta at the Otorii gate, the shrine grounds are decorated with various goldfish Nebuta. There are goldfish nebuta in seven colors, which is associated with the floating lanterns of the Tanabata festival, and black and white modern goldfish nebuta, which was newly created this year, in the "Ryujin no Kuroike" pond. Mr. Tagawa said, "I would like to continue to increase the variations and convey the charm of the goldfish nebuta to everyone in the community while enjoying it. Watch the goldfish nebuta with your family and loved ones and join hands at the shrine. I want to make it a place that people can look back on as a memory," he said with a smile.

Lighting hours are from 17:00 to 21:00. Until August 7th.