Latest Events in Hyogo Prefecture(September Updated)

The fireworks festival, jointly organized by Ikeda City in Osaka Prefecture and Kawanishi City in Hyogo Prefecture, has been a long-standing local tradition since 1948 (Showa 23). It attracts many tourists in previous years, and this year's event marks its second year since the festival was held biennially. Approximately 4,000 fireworks, including star-shaped main cannons and projectile fireworks, were launched from the banks of the Ina River, adding dazzling brilliance to the night sky. The light and sound of the fireworks echoed in the clear waters of the Ina River, creating a dreamlike scene. Watching the fireworks from the riverbank offers a truly immersive experience, allowing you to appreciate the spectacular displays up close.

What does that title signify— Is it "Substitute" or "The Chosen One"? The answer remains unclear. Yet, in this long-run tour starting in Japan, I can distinctly feel something different from before—an unwavering presence that belongs to ayu.

The Nada Battle Festival is held annually from October 14th to 15th at Matsubara Hachiman Shrine in Himeji City. Known as the "Fighting God Festival," participants ram each other's mikoshi (portable shrines) with their portable shrines to demonstrate dominance. The festival spans two days. On the first day, seven teams representing different districts carry yatai floats to the shrine, where they perform a series of rituals between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. The floats are resplendent with ornate wood carvings, gold and silver crafts, and embroidered curtains. The second day is the highlight of the competition, where teams of young men carry three massive mikoshi through the streets, jostling each other. The rules of the competition are sketchy, but once the mikoshi are securely placed on the men's shoulders and everyone is ready, they engage in a jostling match.

The event will be held from August 29th (Saturday) to November 29th (Sunday), 2026, with Mount Rokko serving as the stage for a contemporary art festival. Approximately 60 artist groups will participate, showcasing diverse artistic expressions themed around the natural scenery and history of Mount Rokko. This is a highly anticipated event, with around 60 artist groups participating. The event venues are scattered throughout various locations on Mount Rokko, including the Rokko Forest Sound Museum, the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, and the Rokko Garden Terrace Area, among others.

This year's fireworks display will be held in the Shima area of ​​Himeji Port, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture. Over 10,000 dazzling fireworks will light up the sky in 2026, making it the largest fireworks display ever held and the largest in Hyogo Prefecture. Its charm lies in the fast-paced and diverse array of fireworks, including large flower-like fireworks, water-based star-shaped fireworks, and various uniquely shaped fireworks. This year's fireworks display is planned to be significantly upgraded in scale and production, with over 10,000 fireworks launched, attracting attention even in the Kansai region. Because the fireworks are launched from a barge only 300 meters from the viewing area, spectators can experience the sound and light effects up close, creating a breathtaking visual feast. In addition, pyrotechnicians from the Omagari Fireworks Festival will also present special performances.

This fireworks display took place at Himeji Central Park in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture. Approximately 3,000 fireworks were launched over a period of about 10 minutes. A romantic symphony, a perfect blend of music and light, illuminated the midsummer night sky. The fireworks lit up the amusement park, creating a dreamlike world. During the event, the swimming pool was also open at night, allowing you to enjoy the spectacular fireworks display in a different atmosphere than usual. During the day, you can also visit the wildlife park, making it a perfect opportunity to enjoy the amusement park all day.

For many residents of the Osaka area, the festival season at Nishi-Shingu Shrine begins with the Oguxia Festival in June and continues until the Summer Festival, also known as the Lantern Night. Every September, the shrine's annual schedule culminates in the three-day Nishi-Shingu Festival, a celebration dedicated to Isekai, the god of prosperity and good fortune. The festival begins on September 21st with the Yoimiya Festival and evening offering performances. On September 22nd, the focus shifts to Reisai, the shrine's most important annual ceremony. The Chigo Parade and the Children's Bucket Cart performance also take place, allowing families and younger generations to participate in this centuries-old festival passed down through generations. The second day offers opportunities to experience firsthand the traditional customs that give the festival its meaning.

The "Himeji Castle Moon Viewing Party," held against the backdrop of the World Heritage Site Himeji Castle, is a beloved event that allows people to leisurely experience the unique charm of autumn. At the Sannomaru Plaza, you can enjoy the bright moon while listening to traditional Japanese music performances or sipping tea, savoring a special moment in a tranquil atmosphere. The dreamlike scene created by the brightly lit Himeji Castle intertwined with the moonlight is its unique allure at this time.

The Tamba-Sasayama area of ​​Hyogo Prefecture is famous for Tamba-yaki, one of Japan's most noteworthy ceramics. The Tamba-yaki Pottery Festival has been held for nearly half a century, and approximately 50 different potters will participate in this event.