[2026] Guide to Music Festivals and Outdoor Events in Hokkaido and the Tohoku Region

This event is held to pass down the lessons of the Great East Japan Earthquake to future generations, especially the message: “If a tsunami comes, evacuate to higher ground.” Since ancient times, festivals have been used as a way to preserve and convey important knowledge, and this event follows that tradition. On the day, participants will run to a hilltop, and the first through third finishers will be recognized as “Fukkō-otoko” (literally, “men of restored fortune”). There will also be plenty to enjoy, including live music, a talk session by a director from “How Do You Like Wednesday?” and free grilled Pacific saury.

This event began in 2012, about a year and a half after the Great East Japan Earthquake, as recovery was slowly progressing. It has continued to be loved as a community music event held on street corners, turning all of Kesennuma into a venue. Believing in the power of music to bring hope and strength, local residents plan and run the event, with citizens at the center performing to energize each venue. Music heard throughout the town brings liveliness and lifts people’s spirits.

ARABAKI is written as 荒吐 in kanji, and it is said to refer to a tribe that expanded its influence in the Tohoku region more than 1,200 years ago. The Arahahito (Arabaki) people are said to have loved the land where they lived from the bottom of their hearts and to have played an active role in protecting peace and the dignity of Tohoku. This kind of “ray of light that illuminates Tohoku’s history” is the concept of this festival. Every year, many rock bands gather at the ARABAKI Rock Festival, creating an exciting atmosphere. Look forward to the fusion of history, culture, and rock.