Kumamoto – July 25 Amakusa Hondo Haiya Festival Fireworks Display

Access

Traffic restrictions will be in place around the venue on the day of the fireworks display, and the area will be extremely crowded. Using public transportation and traveling early are strongly recommended.

Public Transportation

• Bus from JR Kumamoto Station Take the Kyushu Sanko Bus Rapid Amakusa-go from JR Kumamoto Station. The journey to Hondo Bus Center takes approximately 2 hours 20 minutes. From Hondo Bus Center, the venue is approximately 3 minutes by taxi or 10 minutes on foot.

By Car

• From the Kyushu Expressway From the Matsubashi IC on the Kyushu Expressway, take National Route 266. The drive takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Parking Information

The following temporary free parking areas will be available on the day of the event. There are approximately 800 parking spaces in total, but capacity is limited, so please carpool whenever possible.

• Amakusa City Hall parking lot
• Amakusa Civic Center
• Amakusa Regional Headquarters
• Hondo Sports Park parking lot (tennis court side)

[Traffic Restrictions] Traffic restrictions will be in effect from 18:00 to 21:30 on the day of the fireworks display around Hondo Port, in parts of the piers, and within the green park. Please follow the instructions of on-site staff and move around safely.

Be Aware of the Last Buses and Trains

The area around the venue becomes extremely crowded after the fireworks display ends. If you plan to use public transportation, check the departure times of return buses and trains in advance, and allow plenty of time for your journey.

Reserved Seating and Tickets

As of July 2026, general sales of reserved viewing seats for the 2026 Amakusa Hondo Haiya Festival Fireworks Display are listed as either “undecided” or “not available.”

However, “preferred seating” is provided for companies that contribute ¥30,000 or more to the Amakusa Hondo Haiya Festival. Individuals who make a contribution (donation) at the venue on the day of the fireworks display may also be invited to the preferred seating area, so please ask the venue staff for details.

Please refrain from reserving a spot in advance. Any items found will be removed, so please be advised.

Lesser-Known Viewing Spots

The area around the main venue is extremely crowded, but there are several spots a little farther away where you can enjoy the fireworks in a more relaxed setting.

1. Jumanyama Park Observation Deck (じゅうまんやまこうえんてんぼうだい)

Located on elevated ground approximately 220 meters above sea level, the Jumanyama Park Observation Deck offers an excellent view over the whole of Hondo Port. It is also recommended for couples seeking a romantic atmosphere, as you can enjoy both the nighttime cityscape and the fireworks. With a calmer atmosphere than the main venue, it is ideal for those who want to watch the fireworks quietly. Approximately 30 free parking spaces are available.

2. Shiroyama Park (しろやまこうえん)

Shiroyama Park (Martyr Park), located on elevated ground in central Hondo, is another recommended spot for viewing the fireworks. It attracts fewer people than the main venue, allowing you to enjoy the show in relative peace. The fireworks viewed through the gaps between the trees have a distinctive charm, creating an atmospheric viewing experience.

3. Around the Hondo Strait Pedestrian Bridge (Red Bridge)

The area around the Hondo Strait Pedestrian Bridge, commonly known as the “Red Bridge,” is also recommended for those who want to avoid the crowds while enjoying the fireworks. Since it is a short distance from the venue, you can watch the show at a leisurely pace while avoiding the throngs of people. It is a good choice for those seeking a peaceful atmosphere.

4. Amakusa Shiro Park

With its expansive lawn, Amakusa Shiro Park is a popular lesser-known spot among families. Since it is some distance from Hondo Port, it is not as crowded as the venue, making it a comfortable place to enjoy the fireworks with children. Approximately 50 free parking spaces are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is reserved seating available? A. As of July 2026, general sales of reserved viewing seats are listed as either “undecided” or “not available.” However, preferred seating is provided for contributors to the Amakusa Hondo Haiya Festival, and people who make a donation at the venue on the day may also be invited. Please ask the venue staff for details.

Q. Is parking available? A. There is no dedicated parking lot around the venue, but temporary free parking will be provided on the day of the event at locations including Amakusa City Hall, Amakusa Civic Center, Amakusa Regional Headquarters, and Hondo Sports Park parking lot. Capacity is limited, so carpooling and arriving early are strongly recommended.

Q. What happens if it rains? A. The Amakusa Hondo Haiya Festival Fireworks Display will be held in rainy weather. However, it will be canceled in severe weather, with no postponement. The final decision is often made around 13:00 on the day, so check the official website and social media for the latest information before setting out.

Q. How many fireworks are launched? A. Approximately 12,000 fireworks are launched in a typical year. Although some sources list the number as “not disclosed,” spectacular fireworks—including the 1.5-shaku shell, one of the largest in the prefecture—light up the night sky in rapid succession for approximately 20 minutes.