Upcoming events, festivals, and experiences in Kumamoto, with dates.
Kumamoto · Festivals & Fireworks
A special two-day celebration for castle lovers held at the foot of Kumamoto Castle! Immerse yourself in the beauty of Japanese castle culture.
Oct 3 – Oct 4Starts in 7 days
A high-energy beach soccer festival set against beautiful blue seas! Choose from five different classes to create amazing memories on the sand.
Experience the traditional Shinkoshiki ceremony and the vibrant Okunchi Festival at the historic Aoi Aso Shrine. A perfect way to witness the beauty of Japanese heritage.
Oct 9
Witness the intense battle of fire and sparks! Experience the legendary 1,100-year-old Chikutsu Hinokami Matsuri in Kumamoto.
Oct 14
Experience the Yatsushiro National Fireworks Competition, where 14,000 fireworks light up the Kumamoto sky. Enjoy a breathtaking blend of traditional competitive fireworks, music, and drone shows.
Oct 17
Kumamoto · Seasonal Events
Celebrate autumn at the Ryokusenkyo Momiji Matsuri! Enjoy stunning foliage and local specialties on November 3.
Nov 3
Kumamoto · Other
Walk through the majestic scenery of Aso with the Dai Aso Genki Walk. With 5km, 10km, and 20km options, it is a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors. Please note that advance registration is required by September 30.
Nov 7 – Nov 8
Discover the mystical beauty of the sea-standing torii gate and the autumn traditions of Nagao Tsurugi Shrine.
Nov 15
A grand UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage festival in Kyushu. Witness the breathtaking beauty of ornate floats and divine processions in Yatsushiro.
Nov 30
Experience the traditional Dondo Matsuri amidst the beautiful scenery of Midori-gawa Dam. Enjoy a special moment where winter nature and Japanese culture meet.
Feb 7, 2027
Experience the grandeur of samurai processions and traditional dances at the historic Hitoyoshi Castle ruins. A perfect way to witness authentic Japanese culture!
Apr 27, 2027
Experience the high-energy Funatori Shinji in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto! Watch young men dive into the pond for a thrilling display of tradition and strength.
Apr 29, 2027
Experience the Inuko Hyotan Festival in Yamaga, featuring unique puppy-themed charms, traditional paper plays, and Kagura dances. A perfect way to enjoy a traditional Japanese summer in a yukata!
Jun 15, 2027
Experience the Takesako Kannon Festival, a traditional celebration of local heritage. Immerse yourself in the spiritual culture and warm community atmosphere of Saitama.
Jul 11, 2027
Kumamoto
A premier spring site in Kumato, selected as one of Japan's '100 Best Waters.' Surrounded by 200-year-old trees, enjoy the healing sounds and crystal-clear water. An ideal stop during an Aso drive.
Experience the power of a 60-meter waterfall! A Top 100 Waterfall in Japan, Sugaru-ga-taki is a perfect, easy-to-access photo spot for your Aso road trip.
Explore Misumi West Port, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere of a Meiji-era port, characterized by its iconic stone-built piers and Western-style architecture.
Shozen-in is a historic site in Kumamoto known as the "Cat Temple." Experience the profound beauty of the Kannon-do Hall (a National Important Cultural Property) and the charming "Koma-neko" statues that embody the local legends.
A stunning viewpoint overlooking the Aso Caldera! The early morning sea of clouds and the silhouette of the Aso Five Peaks are must-see sights. Stop by during your drive to refresh your spirit with the best views in Aso.
Aso Onsenkyo is a collection of diverse hot spring-towns at the foot of Mt. Aso. Experience the bliss of Kumamoto's natural beauty through unique areas like Uchimaki Onsen and Akamizu Onsen.
