Obihiro Tanabata Fest in Hirokoji

Held in the arcade of the Hirokoji shopping street in central Obihiro, this is one of Hokkaido's largest Tanabata events. Colorful streamers and decorations fill the entire arcade ceiling for a spectacular overhead display. Carrying on the tradition of the former "Obihiro Hirokoji Tanabata Festival," it has in recent years been run mainly by students as the "Obihiro Tanabata Fest." With wish-writing, stage events and food stalls, it is a beloved summer feature of the Tokachi region that can be enjoyed even in the rain thanks to the covered arcade.