The parade wound it’s way through town. I tried to find a place with a background more interesting than a McDonald’s or a Mos Burger.

Hachinohe Enburi, Aomori

Switching to a wide lens allowed me to capture more of the action.

Hachinohe Enburi, Aomori

In the late afternoon and evening, the Oniwa Enburi took place in the garden of Koujoukaku, a historic building in the city where the dances were once performed for rich merchants.

A young boy performed Ebisu-mai which celebrates the struggle and ultimate success of a fisherman.

Hachinohe Enburi, Aomori

The final dances of the evening were performed in torchlight (and a few floodlights) these three men are performing Naga Enburi one of the oldest styles dating back 800 years.

Hachinohe Enburi, Aomori