Summer Festivals in Hyogo: A Season of Culture, Color, and Celebration

Sea Fireworks in Kasumi Hometown Matsuri

As summer sweeps across Hyogo Prefecture, the region transforms into a vibrant stage of color, culture, and community. From centuries-old rituals to bustling artisan markets and seaside celebrations, there’s no better time to explore the heart of Japan’s seasonal charm. Whether you're sampling local street food or watching fireworks over the bay, Hyogo offers unforgettable memories for every kind of traveler. From the iconic castle town of Himeji to the creative pulse of Kobe, and from the serene mountains of Yumura Onsen to the sandy shores of Ashiya, each destination offers its own unique slice of cultural magic. With traditional flavors, hands-on traditions, and warm community spirit, Hyogo’s summer festivals are more than just events; they’re a window into the soul of Japan.

When searching for summer festivals in Japan, you will notice that most of them will feature fireworks as their main event, particularly concentrated in July and August. Japan's firework culture, which is distinctively tied to the summer season, stands out compared to many other countries, where fireworks are more commonly associated with New Year's or national celebrations.

The tradition dates back to 1733, when the first recorded fireworks in Japan was held to console the dead and to dispel epidemics and evil spirits during a time of severe famine and disease. This connection between fireworks and spiritual rites is further supported by traditional Japanese beliefs, in which fire and light play a central role in ancestral worship and Buddhist rituals to venerate the spirits of the deceased. While the original purpose of warding off misfortune or honoring the dead has faded over time, the custom of lighting firworks in summer has been passed down through generations and continues to this day!

Yumura Onsen Festival/湯村温泉まつり

June 1, 2025 (Every 1st Sunday of June) | Yumura Onsen, Shin-onsen Town

Tucked in the serene mountains of northwest Hyogo, Yumura Onsen hosts a summer celebration steeped in tradition. With a history spanning 700 years, the festival’s signature event is the thrilling Shōbu Hikitori—an “Iris Tug-of-War” using a giant rope. Locals and visitors alike are encouraged to join in the fun. The festival also features traditional music, children’s parades, and food stalls lining the streets of this famous hot spring town. It’s an immersive, off the beaten path cultural experience.

Himeji Yukata Festival/姫路ゆかたまつり

June 21–22, 2025 | Himeji City

Step back into a timeless summer tradition in the historic city of Himeji. For over 250 years, locals have gathered to celebrate the yukata (a casual version of the kimono and is often worn for summer festivals). Streets surrounding Himeji Castle come alive with people of all ages dressed in vibrant yukata, enjoying festival games, delicious street food, and live entertainment. This is one of Western Japan’s largest yukata festivals—and it’s free to attend!

Ashiya Summer Carnival/芦屋サマーカーニバル

July 26, 2025 | Miratap Park Ashiya, Shioashiya Green Space, Shioashiya Beach

Wrap up your summer adventure with a festive seaside celebration in Ashiya. The Ashiya Summer Carnival brings food, live performances, and a spectacular fireworks show to the shores of Osaka Bay. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy the warm breeze, lively atmosphere, and stunning night sky bursting with color.

Kobe Love Port・Kobe Love Port Minato Festival/Kobe Love Port・みなとまつり

July 26–27, 2025 | Meriken Park, Kobe

Set in the iconic Meriken Park overlooking Kobe Port, this vibrant two‑day festival honors the city’s maritime spirit and global heritage. A mix of music, comedy, fashion shows, and water‑splashing events along with local bands and taiko drummers, every corner of the park buzzes with energy. Over 70 food trucks and stalls dish up everything from local Kobe specialties to global street food—perfect for fueling your seaside adventures!

Kasumi Hometown Festival/香住ふるさとまつり

July 26, 2025 | Shiokaze Park, Kasumi Beach Area

The 48th Kasumi Hometown Matsuri is an all day festival filled with exciting activities, including the signature tarai (tub-rowing) competition, children's mini games, flea markets, and culminating in the evening with its grand fireworks display. Known as one of the top four fireworks shows in Hyogo Prefecture, it features a dazzling variety of pyrotechnics, launching around 5,000 fireworks over the sea in just 60 minutes.

Dekansho Festival/デカンショ祭

August 15–16, 2025 | Sasayama Castle Ruins, Tamba-Sasayama

Experience one of Western Japan’s largest folk song festivals! Centered around the Sasayama Castle ruins, this vibrant summer event is built around the upbeat Dekansho-bushi folk song, which has earned recognition as a Japan Heritage piece. A giant wooden yagura hosts the “Dekansho Odori” — a community dance enveloping the tower, with over 1,000 participants joining each evening. Free lessons and a “fly‑in” dance ring warmly welcome first-timers, inviting everyone to sing, dance, and enjoy the summer night.

The summer festivals are a core component of Japanese culture and life. Whether you're drawn to historic rituals, artistic treasures, or the communal joy of summer celebrations, Hyogo's summer festivals offer an authentic taste of Japanese culture and hospitality. Bring your camera, your appetite, and your friends to make this summer one to remember!

Written By: Sabrina Chun - Intern from University of Washington

Summer in Nepal🌞