Manatsu no Lantern Fes
真夏のランタンフェス
Hirakata Park's Midsummer Lantern Festival brings glowing lanterns and a mystery mission to its Planet Aqua Port aquarium from 11 July to 13 September.
Gate price from ¥2,200
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The "Manatsu no Lantern Fes" (Midsummer Lantern Festival) is a summer festival conceived and produced by a team of young Hirakata Park employees from across different departments.
More than 30 lanterns will illuminate the aquarium, many designed as jellyfish that blend seamlessly with the tanks to create a romantic, otherworldly atmosphere. Two special zones will receive dedicated decor: Space Mermaid, a feminine space wrapped in shells and jewels with rippling light-and-water projections, and Galaxy Gallery, a photo spot decorated with colourful Japanese umbrellas, ideal for visitors in yukata.
Visitors can purchase original LED lanterns, safe for children to carry, on which they can write wishes or messages using a special pen. The lanterns can be carried around the park and taken home afterwards as a keepsake.
Also on offer is "mizu-mikuji", a fortune-telling paper that reveals its message once dipped in water, adding a cooling seasonal touch.
For those who enjoy puzzles, the "Planet Aqua Port Mission" invites guests to explore every corner of the aquarium to solve riddles, with an original sticker awarded to anyone who completes all the challenges.
Please note that the lanterns, mizu-mikuji and mission rally each require a separate fee.
