Kihoku Lantern Festival

Summary

The Kihoku Lantern Festival is held at Nagashima Port in Kiho Town, Mie Prefecture, on July 25, 2026. Its centerpiece is a giant handmade lantern more than 35 meters long that sails across the harbor — locals call it the 'Nebuta of the sea'. Lanterns made by the town's kindergarten and school children line the venue, and the evening closes with about 3,000 fireworks over the water. Around 50,000 visitors are expected for this town-wide summer event.

Overview

The Kihoku Torou Matsuri is a hand-made festival held each summer at Nagashima Port in Kihoku Town, Kitamuro District, Mie Prefecture. In 2026 it takes place on July 25, with about 3,000 shells fired over the harbor between 19:30 and 20:30. The festival's centerpiece is the giant lantern built by townspeople — over 35 meters long, rebuilt around a new theme each year, and nicknamed the 'Nebuta of the sea' as it sails across the harbor. Small and box-shaped lanterns made by local kindergarten and school children line the venue. It is a 20-minute walk from Kii-Nagashima Station, or about 5 minutes by car from Kii-Nagashima IC on the Kisei Expressway. Paid temporary parking is planned around the venue, and from the harbor-facing viewing area you can enjoy both the bursts and their reflections on the water.

Details

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