Held every year on February 10th, this local festival sees dozens of large paper balloons set off into the night sky. With over a century of history behind it, the origins of the traditions are not known for certain, but it is thought they were used to pray for good rice harvests. Stopped during WW2, the festival was revived in the 70s and has now become one of the most extraordinary sights in Japan. The large balloons are intricately painted with traditional designs and smaller balloons are offered so visitors and locals can write wishes on them. It is highly reccomended to arrive before 5pm so you can write your wish and enjoy the festive atmosphere before the grand event. There will be additional trains on the day but they are expected to be busy.
Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival
Get the best Japan Cheapo hacks direct to your inbox
-
Lake Towada Winter Story 2021
On the shores of Lake Towada, the venue is transformed into an illuminated winter wonderland for a period of three months in winter. In previous years, the event was compressed into three weeks in February, but in the interest of […]
5:00pm – 8:00pm¥1,200 (advance sales)¥1,600 (on the door) -
Zao Snow Monster Festival
While most snow festivals feature man-made sculptures, the snow monsters of Zao are entirely natural. Created in rare circumstances that require specific weather and tree formation, the snow gathers in such a way that monsters are formed in the mountains. […]
Free -
Dojima Yakushido Setsubun Omizukumi Festival
Celebrated to mark the end of winter and the day before spring begins, setsubun is an age-old Japanese ceremony thought to drive evil spirits from the house. Many people dress as demons and are herded out of businesses and houses […]
3:00pm – 9:00pmFree -
Yasaka Shrine Setsubun
One of the many traditional Setsubun festivals taking place across Japan, this one is unusual in that it features Geiko – the Kyoto version of Geisha. On the first day, there will be dance performances and bean-throwing ceremony from 1pm […]
11:00am – 4:00pmFree