Haga Tenmangu Tanabata Festival

Haga Tenmangu in Nishimizunuma, Haga Town, is known for blessings of academic success and exam passing, drawing worshippers from near and far. Its Tanabata festival, held on the second Sunday of July, opens with a main ceremony at 4 p.m. followed by a lively lineup of balloon art, magic shows, quena flute and street performances. Visitors can also experience the classic Tanabata custom of writing wishes on strips to tie to bamboo. About 20 minutes by car from central Utsunomiya, it is cherished as a local summer tradition for families and students alike.