The Nebuta Parade consists of approximately 15 to 23 groups, each centered around large Nebuta floats. Furthermore, every Nebuta group has various roles to fulfill. In this article, I will inform you about the role of each person within these Nebuta groups.
・曳き手（Hikite）-Pullers: “Hikite” refers to people responsible for pulling something in Japanese. It goes without saying that the Nebuta floats are the focal point of each group. Since the floats don’t have engines, they require Hikite pullers to move them. The movement of the floats involves roughly 20 people, typically young men.
・扇子持ち（Sensu-Mochi）-Conductor: “Sensu-Mochi” denotes fan bearers in Japanese. Positioned in front of the Nebuta float, this person gives instructions to the Hikite. He uses a whistle and a fan to control the gigantic float like a conductor of an orchestra.
・囃子方（Hayashi-Kata）-Musicians: “Hayashi-Kata” refers to individuals responsible for the musical accompaniment. The musical ensemble consists of drums, flutes, and handbells. It requires high skill and endurance to play musical instruments while walking, so they practice for several months to prepare for the festival.
・跳人（Haneto）-Dancers: The direct translation for “Haneto” is someone who jumps in Japanese. They are also an essential component of the Nebuta parade. Haneto involves a specific style of dance, and surprisingly, anyone can participate in the Nebuta parade as a Haneto. There’s just one important requirement to be a Haneto: Wearing a traditional Haneto costume. However, there’s no need to worry about this, as there are several Haneto costume rental shops in Aomori City. You may also purchase the Haneto costume; this would make the perfect souvenir. Wearing the Haneto costume demands a particular technique. As part of the rental or purchase service, shop attendants are there to assist you with the fitting process.
・化人（Baketo）-Clowns: “Baketo” refers to individuals who impersonate or take on the appearance of someone else in Japanese. Baketo is a type of clown in the Nebuta parade. They typically paint their faces white and wear eccentric costumes.
These are some of the roles within each Nebuta group. Each role is important, and the festival would not be complete without them. I hope that you will pay attention to each role of the Nebuta parade!
