Endoji Tanabata Festival

Held in the Endoji and Endoji Honmachi shopping arcades in Nishi Ward, Nagoya, this historic Tanabata festival has continued since 1956. Set amid the nostalgic downtown atmosphere of one of Nagoya's oldest shopping streets, it takes place from late July to early August each year. Its highlight is the unique and charming papier-mache figures reflecting current events, handmade by shop owners, which fill the arcade and are judged in a contest. Alongside wish strips and bamboo decorations, food stalls, kitchen cars, and stage events draw both locals and tourists who enjoy strolling and eating.