It all started with a love for Star Wars and a desire to explore Japan. Years ago, I first heard about Aomori and Tottori, two regions in Japan that had unique ties to the galaxy far, far away. Their local Star Wars promotions caught my eye, sparking a journey that would weave together my passion for the franchise with the magic of Japanese culture.
Aomori: Where Nebuta Meets the Force
My first encounter with Aomori’s Nebuta – elaborate paper parade floats depicting warriors, illuminated from within – was at the “World of Star Wars” exhibition in Tokyo. It was a glimpse into a tradition that felt like a perfect fusion of artistry and storytelling, reminiscent of the epic battles depicted in the films. Later, I had the chance to witness the real Nebuta floats at the Furusato Matsuri in Tokyo Dome. Finally, in 2022, I made it to the Aomori Nebuta Festival, where I saw the majestic floats parade through the streets, a sight that had captivated my imagination for years.
Tokyo: A City of Star Wars and Ghibli Wonders
It was thanks to the “World of Star Wars” exhibition that I discovered the Tokyo Dome, a venue that hosted the event. The exhibition, held at Nittele Tower in Shiodome, showcased a captivating blend of Star Wars and Japanese culture. This same tower also houses the Ghibli Clock, a whimsical creation by the legendary animator Hayao Miyazaki, further solidifying Tokyo’s status as a hub for imaginative experiences.
Tottori: Tatooine in the Sand Dunes
While I missed the Tottori Sand Museum’s Star Wars sand sculpture back in 2015, I did get to witness the museum’s impressive Egypt-themed exhibition in 2022. The intricate sand sculptures, created by the museum’s talented producer Katsuhiko Chaen, were a sight to behold. However, the true star of the trip was the Tottori Sand Dunes themselves – a vast expanse of sand that felt like stepping onto Tatooine, with the sand clinging to my shoes just like Anakin Skywalker described.
Fukuoka: A Festival of Giant Floats
My Star Wars journey in Japan also led me to Fukuoka, where I witnessed the spectacular Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival. The towering summer floats, much larger than the ones in Aomori, were a sight to behold, especially the Star Wars float I saw which cleverly retracted to avoid hitting power lines.
A Changing Perspective on Star Wars
In recent years, my relationship with Star Wars has evolved. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found myself less drawn to the franchises of my youth. While I still appreciate the world of Star Wars, I’ve become more discerning in what I consume, choosing to focus on the content that genuinely resonates with me.
Navigating the New Star Wars Landscape
While I wasn’t particularly enthralled by shows like Moon Knight or Obi-Wan Kenobi, I’m cautiously optimistic about Andor, which offers a more grounded and mature approach to the Star Wars universe. I’m curious to see how this series unfolds and whether it will rekindle my passion for the franchise.
With Disney+ churning out numerous Star Wars projects, I’m starting to feel a sense of fatigue. While I appreciate the effort put into creating new content, I’m not sure I can keep up with the constant influx of shows. For now, I’m happy to explore the galaxy far, far away at my own pace, cherishing the memories of my travels through Japan and the unique experiences that brought Star Wars to life in a truly unexpected way.
