Guida
Kushiro Taiyo Donpaku is a magnificent festival of food and fireworks held in Kushiro City, Hokkaido. The name "Donpaku" is a clever combination of "Don" (the booming sound of fireworks) and "Paku" (the sound of eating heartily). The highlight of this event is the display of the 'Sanjaku-dama' fireworks, which are among the largest in Hokkaido. The theme celebrates the harmony of the earth's bounty, the ocean's treasures, and the beauty of the night sky.
The roots of this event trace back to the autumn festivals of the 1990s, such as the Kushiro Cosmos Fair and the Kushiro Wetland Fair. While those specific festivals concluded in the early 1990s, a movement grew to celebrate September 4th at 6:00 PM (9/4 6:00) as a special time for the community. In 2004, the current "Kushiro Taiyo Donpaku" was born to integrate these local traditions. Elements from the former Kushiro Port Festival's fireworks displays have also transitioned into this event, ensuring a high-caliber display featuring 2-shaku and 3-shaku sized shells.
The most anticipated moment is the fireworks display. The launch of the 'Sanjaku-dama'—one of the largest firework shells in Hokkaido—is the symbolic climax of the festival. Beyond the lights, it is a major culinary event featuring agricultural fairs and seafood programs. Visitors can enjoy various food stalls offering local delicacies from the sea and the fertile land of Kushiro. Depending on the schedule, the event also includes live music stages and related local festivities like the 'Suehiro Matsuri'.
The event is typically held in September, usually spanning about three days centered around the second Saturday of the month. The main fireworks display generally begins around 19:00, with the spectacular 'Sanjaku-dama' expected to launch around 19:30. During the daytime, the atmosphere is focused on food fairs, agricultural displays, and various stage performances.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the local flavors through various programs. The agricultural fair showcases the best produce from Hokkaido's farms, while the seafood programs highlight the fresh catch from Kushiro's waters. The combination of live music, stage entertainment, and gourmet food creates a holistic experience that connects the natural beauty of Kushiro with its rich culinary traditions.
The main venue is located around the Kushiro Tourism International Exchange Center. Other related areas include the Kushiro Fisheries Center (Marine Pose Kushiro), Kushiro Fukko Market, Sakaemachi Heiwa Park, and the areas surrounding the Kushiro River. For the best views of the fireworks, popular spots include the North Pier, Yonemachi Park, Kushiro City Lifelong Learning Center, Kushuri Bridge, and the Kushiro Fisherman's Wharf MOO area.
As the event takes place in open outdoor spaces and near the waterfront, please prepare for temperature changes. September in Kushiro can get quite chilly at night, so bringing warm clothing or a light jacket is highly recommended. For food stalls, it is best to carry cash as many vendors may not accept cards. If you wish to secure a good view for the fireworks, arrive early to find a spot. Please be mindful of your surroundings and follow local etiquette, such as taking your trash home or using designated bins.