Wajima Kiriko Art Museum

For centuries festivals have served as a tradition for the people of Japan to celebrate the Gods. Around the Noto Peninsula, a variety of festivals use towering Kiriko floats at the center of their parades. When not in use, you can admire them up close in the Wajima Kiriko Art Museum.
 
Around 31 Kiriko lanterns are on display, but some can be considered extra special. One of the most notable lanterns is quite impressive in size, standing 15 meters high (biggest in Noto) and weighing around 2500 kg made from centuries-old trees in the region, some of these lanterns require more than 100 people to carry them! They are arranged in a large, curved room that imitates lights and sounds of a festival. 
Up above, you can head on over to the observation deck, overlooking the harbor with a first-class view of the wild Japanese sea. Enjoy this mesmerizing view up on the third floor. 
 
It’s truly a unique museum which almost allows you to experience a Kiriko festival without being there. All the lanterns are beautifully lit, and the surrounding walls lit in various colors, adding to the atmosphere.