Matsunami Ningyo Kiriko Festival

The Matsunami Ningyo Kiriko Festival is a vibrant and culturally rich event that takes place in the Matsunami area, celebrated for its unique blend of traditional puppetry and Kiriko lanterns. The Matsunami Ningyo Kiriko Festival combines the traditional Japanese practices of Ningyo Joruri (puppet theatre) and the Kiriko lantern processions, typical to many festivals in the Noto region. Ningyo Joruri is a form of traditional puppet theatre that involves intricate, life-sized puppets manipulated by skilled puppeteers to tell dramatic stories often derived from Japanese folklore and history. The festival features elaborate puppet shows that depict classical Japanese tales and local legends. These performances are notable for their detailed craftsmanship and the high level of skill required by the puppeteers, who bring these inanimate figures to life.

Accompanying the puppet performances, the Kiriko lanterns are paraded through the streets. These large, beautifully crafted wooden lanterns are lit up from the inside, creating a captivating glow that lights up the night. The lanterns are carried by local residents, adding a communal spirit to the festivities.