Beppu Hi no Umi Festival

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy Japanese traditions, such as hanabi (fireworks displays), while wearing a yukata and savoring a delicious variety of street food. The Beppu Hi no Umi Festival takes place in Beppu, Oita Prefecture. Famous for its hot springs and hell ponds. This two-day festival showcases the unique culture of the region, celebrating the best of summer with fireworks, traditional performances and delicious food.

Beppu Hi no Umi Festival

Photo by: PIXTA/ marumaru

The Beppu Hi no Umi Festival, or “Sea of Fire Festival,” has a rich history. Held annually in late July, it started in 1977 to celebrate Beppu’s hot spring and coastal location. The name Hi no Umi pays homage to Beppu’s two defining elements: “fire” for its geothermal activity and “sea” for its beautiful coastline. This festival has grown into one of the highlights of the summer season in Beppu, attracting many visitors every year. The best places to view the festival are Matogahama Park, Spa Beach and the Kitahama Green Belt along the shore. These locations offer stunning views of the fireworks and other festivities.

Festival Highlights

Photo by: PIXTA/ ゆう

The highlight of the Beppu Hi no Umi Festival is its synchronized fireworks show over Beppu Bay. This grand event, known as the largest fireworks festival in the prefecture, features an impressive array of 8,000 to 10,000 vibrant fireworks that illuminate the night sky for an hour. There are both paid and free seating areas available.. During the festival, look forward to the Bon Odori dance competition, taiko drumming and a lively summer music festival. 

There’s also an evening market, with dozens of yatai (food stalls) lining the waterfront promenade. These stalls offer takoyaki (grilled octopus) and Beppu-style torsten (chicken tempura). Visitors can also enjoy summer special treats, such as kakigori (shaved ice) and local dishes, including hiyashi chuka (cold noodles) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers).