SHIMODA, Japan — The Festival of Living Dolls takes place Saturday and Sunday near the community train station at Fushimi Inari Shrine.

Near Misawa Air Base, the town festival features parades and dancing beginning at 2 p.m. each day.

According to town officials, the festival was first discussed in the aftermath of World War II as leaders looked to preserve local traditions.

In 1953, residents held the first Shimoda Festival. Since they lacked money and resources, they dressed as living dolls and paraded in rickshaws.

The annual festival has continued for 40 years, depicting historical figures and tales from Japanese and Chinese folklore, officials said. During the festival, performers also stage an Edo Period dance.

Schedule of events

All events are at and around Shimoda Train station.

Saturday

• 2-4 p.m.: Parade with floats and other entertainment• 4-5 p.m.: Traditional dances• 5-5:20 p.m.: Mini-concert• 5:30-6:30 p.m.: Dance show• 6:30 p.m.: Karaoke contest

Sunday

• 2-4 p.m.: Parade with floats and other entertainment• 4-5 p.m.: Various traditional dances• 5-6 p.m.: Traditional hand dance• 6-7 p.m.: Mini-concert• 7:30 p.m.: Raffle (Tickets will be given away when buying food and drinks at any of the vendors and shops.)

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