This museum is off the beaten path, but it is well worth finding it and investing an hour or so wandering through the amazing lanterns. The price is affordable, about JPY600/person, and colors and sounds are a reward for the senses. There is limited English available, so best visit with a Japanese speaker or simple enjoy the exhibits without the cultural or historical explanations. We were wowed!

This museum focuses on the lanterns that are used in local festivals. These lanterns are huge and must be carried by a large group of strong people. Their decorations are elaborate and colorful. The museum also gives perspective on the festival and illustrates a couple of other festivals that occur in the area. Many of the signs are in English making it easy to follow the displays. There is also a brief introductory talk when you arrive that was in Japanese on the day we visited.