Written by Aarohi Narain
Colorful balloons and family fun take over Saku City during Golden Week.
What happens?
Held every Golden Week in Saku City, the Saku Balloon Festival brings the skies to life with vibrant hot-air balloons under the theme Inspiring Children. Over three days, Japan’s top pilots compete in aerial battles, while families enjoy classes and stage events.
With around 330,000 visitors expected, this is one of the region’s most popular — and unique — events.
Schedule
The festival takes place in the first week of May each year. The hot air balloons typically fly in the early morning and evening when the wind is calm. On May 4, the balloons will be tethered and lit up and there may even be some fireworks.
How to get there
Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen. Get off at Sakudaira Station and take a free shuttle bus to the venue. Alternatively, it’s a 15-minute taxi ride.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.