This was submitted by Richard Watanabe from Arcadia, California, for Discover Nikkei’s Nima-kai Traditions: Matsuri photo activity.

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The Haneto dancers lead the nebuta float down LA’s First Street. The Nebuta Festival in Aomori, Japan features giant paper lantern floats. However, the Nebuta Festival is never complete without Haneto dancers. Haneto dance is probably one of the easiest to learn, but does require the appropriate attire. In fact, in Aomori, guests are encouraged to join the Haneto dancers, so long as they wear the appropriate attire. A group of locals and dancers from Aomori came together to lead the Nebuta at the 2007 Nisei Week Parade. The dancers completed a very memorable Nisei Week Parade that featured a Nebuta borrowed from Aomori, Japan.