Wakamatsu Port Festival is held on a Friday through Sunday in late July. It features various events such as the “Goheita Bayashi” (a musical performance), Fire Festival, Cutter Race, Gonzo (Ship Loader) Race, and fireworks display.
The origins of the Goheita Bayashi were trendy songs and folk songs sung by the boatmen of Gotaihei boats that used to transport coal from Chikuho. The up-tempo rhythm from which the spirit of men in the Onga River region can be felt is impressive!
Floats modeled after Goheita boats parade around Wakamatsu’s shopping area, while the sound of the barrel drum and song of Goheita Bayashi reverberate throughout the area.
After the Kappa (Water Sprite) Festival on the last day, a parade of about 2,000 people with torches climbs up 120-meter (roughly 394-foot) high Mt. Takato. The scene is quite beautiful, as if a giant, blazing snake is slithering up the mountain.