A Float Artisan & His Muse

The Nebuta Festival, which features illuminated floats, is a tradition in Aomori Prefecture, Japan. But it wasn't held for 3 years during covid. Kitamura Shunichi creates nebuta floats, just like his father and uncle. Shunichi has taken a different path: while floats have traditionally featured male characters, his now include women as well. Providing inspiration is his wife, Toshie, who works along with him. We look behind the scenes as the couple struggles to complete their creations on time.