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Nanase no Homura Matsuri Festival

Guide

Nanase no Homura Matsuri Festival

6 min read

Event Overview

Nanase no Homura Matsuri is a traditional festival in Oita Prefecture centered around the themes of fire, water, history, and heritage. The most iconic sight is the "Hashiramatsu," where massive 12m tall pillars made of straw, pine needles, and fireworks are set ablaze with torches. Additionally, the "Man-toro" features thousands of lanterns lining both sides of the Nanase River for about 2km, creating a stunning, glowing path through the darkness.

Highlights & What to Expect

The festival's climax is the "Hashiramatsu," a high-energy spectacle where local communities compete to light their pillars. The sight of the flames against the night sky is truly powerful and awe-inspiring. You can also witness the "Furi-manto," a dynamic display where flaming straw bundles are swung through the air. As night falls, the combination of the riverbank lanterns and the fireworks overhead creates a magical atmosphere that feels worlds away from everyday life.

Schedule

The festival is held annually over two days in late July.

  • *Day 1**: Starts around 17:00
  • *Day 2**: Starts around 09:00, with a fireworks display around 20:45

Venue & Access

The event takes place at Nanase River Natural Park (Nanase-gawa Shizen Koen).

  • *By Public Transport**: Take a bus from JR Oita Station and get off at the "Tanda Shisho-mae" bus stop. It is approximately a 5-minute walk from there.
  • *By Car**: While temporary parking (such as the west side of Nanase River Natural Park) may be available, please be aware that traffic restrictions will be in place on surrounding roads during the event.

Travel Tips

The fireworks display, the festival's grand finale, is scheduled for around 20:45 on the second day. The moment the fireworks light up the sky above the river of lanterns is a once-in-a-lifetime sight. As this is an outdoor night event, please stay aware of your surroundings and enjoy the heat and light of the festival.

What to Bring & Etiquette

  • *Clothing**: Since this is an outdoor night event, we recommend comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking, as well as something to keep you comfortable in the evening air.
  • *Traffic**: Traffic restrictions (e.g., from 15:00 to 22:00) will be implemented on nearby roads. Please plan your travel accordingly.
  • *Etiquette**: This is a cherished local tradition. Please be respectful of the local community and other spectators while enjoying the festivities.