Kingyo Neputa:Historic Goldfish Lanterns of Aomori

Back in the Edo period, goldfish like Tsugaru Nishiki were an exclusive item that only the ‘it family aka the samurai families’ were able to have. But farmers really admired its beauty, so they crafted goldfish lanterns from bamboo and washi paper for their children to enjoy. that was the start of Kingyo Neputa .

Each Kingyo Neputa starts with a delicate frame, with artisans carefully bending bamboo into flawless curves to create its goldfish frame. The washi paper is then meticulously measured, cut, stretched over the frame and bring it to life with vivid hand-painted designs, bursting with bold colors and intricate details that symbolize joy, festivity, and good fortune.

A touch of wax creates a unique glow, refracting light for an ethereal, luminous effect when the light is placed inside.

These lanterns became a staple of the Hirosaki Neputa Festival, celebrated since 1722. and today, they carried by children through the streets or hung outside shops as a summer tradition. even featured on a one-of-a-kind train journey through Aomori’s rich heritage.