Guide
The Tokushima Hyotan-jima Suitosai is a celebration designed to help you rediscover the beauty of the Shinmachi River in Tokushima City. This unique festival was born from the fusion of the former 'Tokushima Hyotan-jima Expo' and the 'Tokushima Suitosai.' It is a special event where water and culture meet, offering traditional indigo dyeing experiences, various riverside activities, and a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the night sky.
The biggest draw of this festival is the wide range of activities centered around the natural beauty of the Shinmachi River. Visitors of all ages can enjoy water-based fun, including floating obstacle courses, large water sliders, and even SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) or kayaking sessions. For those interested in local heritage, there are dedicated booths where you can try traditional Japanese indigo dyeing (Aizome). As night falls, the atmosphere shifts with live music concerts and a stunning display of approximately 2,000 fireworks, creating an unforgettable summer night.
This event is typically held over three days (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) in mid-July. Please note that specific dates may vary each year, so we recommend checking the official website for the most current schedule. The festival is structured so you can enjoy water activities during the day and transition into music and fireworks in the evening.
The festival is centered around Aibahama Park and the surrounding Shinmachi River area in Tokushima City. Access is extremely convenient, as the venue is located just a 5-minute walk from JR Tokushima Station. Since it is so close to the station, it is very easy to reach using local public transportation.
If you plan to participate in water activities like the obstacle course or water sliders, we highly recommend wearing clothes that can get wet and bringing a change of clothes. Because the availability of experience-based events like SUP, kayaking, or indigo dyeing can change based on booth capacity and registration times, arriving early is advised. There will also be about 30 food and beverage stalls, so come hungry to enjoy local Tokushima delicacies.
Please wear comfortable clothing that is suitable for movement and water activities. If you intend to use the water slides or obstacle courses, remember to bring a towel and a change of clothes. Please note that payment methods for food stalls and the availability of English support or reservations for specific workshops may vary; we recommend checking the official website for the latest details regarding the current year's operations.