Kumamoto Tanabata Lantern Festival

The centrepiece is the release of around 3,000 sky lanterns, which the organisers describe as among the largest displays of its kind in Japan. As the lanterns rise together into the night sky, they create a striking, out-of-the-ordinary spectacle. Beyond the main release, the grounds will feature street performances, live music, a varied line-up of food trucks and nostalgic festival-stall booths, with activities aimed at visitors of all ages.

Tickets are priced at 5,000 yen in advance and 6,000 yen on the day. One lantern ticket admits up to two people, and children of primary school age and under enter free. A separate park admission ticket is required for each visitor, with entry free for those of high-school age and under.