Oita – August 16 Kitsuki City Summer Fireworks Festival

Access

The venue for the Kitsuki City Summer Fireworks Festival can be reached by either public transportation or car.

By train The venue is approximately 10 minutes by taxi from JR Kitsuki Station. It is also about a 15-minute walk from Kitsuki Bus Terminal. Public transportation is expected to be crowded on the day of the fireworks festival, so allow plenty of time for your journey.

By car From Kitsuki IC on the Oita Airport Road, the venue is approximately 30 minutes via National Route 213. Around 700～800 spaces in free temporary parking lots are expected to be available near the venue. Temporary parking will also be provided near the Kitsuki Kambu Police Box. However, parking is limited and heavy congestion is expected, as in previous years, so arriving early is advisable.

Traffic restrictions Traffic restrictions will be in effect around the venue from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the day of the fireworks festival. Since extensive traffic controls will be implemented, we recommend using public transportation, arriving early, and checking alternative routes in advance to avoid congestion.

Be careful not to miss the last train The fireworks festival is scheduled to end at 20:40, but it may take time to leave the venue and reach the station. Those using JR Kitsuki Station in particular should check the last train schedule in advance.

Reserved Seating and Tickets

The Kitsuki City Summer Fireworks Festival offers special reserved seating at Kitsuki Castle, allowing visitors to enjoy the fireworks at their leisure while avoiding the crowds.

• Date and time: August 16, 2026 (Sunday), doors open from 19:00, fireworks from 20:00
• Location: Kitsuki Castle
• Price: 3,000円 (elementary school students and older; includes a drink and snacks)
  • Preschool children are admitted free of charge, but no seats are provided.
• Types of seating:
  • Seat A: Keep (up to 8 people)
  • Seat B: Stairway (up to 12 people)
  • Seat C: Observation deck (up to 6 people) ※Private use
• Applications: Kitsuki City Tourism Association (Phone: 0978-63-0100, email: info@kit-suki.com)
  • Please apply by phone or email.
• Application deadline: By 17:00 on August 13, 2026 (Wednesday)
  • Reservations may close before the deadline once capacity is reached, so booking early is recommended.

Watching the fireworks from Kitsuki Castle is sure to let you enjoy the atmosphere of a Japanese summer while feeling like a feudal lord.

Lesser-Known Viewing Spots

The main venue, Kitsuki City Kaihin Yume Park, offers an incredibly close-up experience, but here are several lesser-known spots for those who would prefer to enjoy the fireworks away from the crowds.

1. The outskirts of Kitsuki City Kaihin Yume Park The main venue, Kitsuki City Kaihin Yume Park, covers a large area, so the outskirts of the park, a little farther from the launch site, may be comparatively less crowded. This spot is recommended for those who want to relax while still fully experiencing the power and sound of the fireworks. With no buildings blocking the view, you can enjoy the fireworks being launched against the sea.

2. High ground along Morie Bay (near the ruins of Kitsuki Castle) The elevated areas along Morie Bay, particularly near the ruins of Kitsuki Castle, may offer an excellent vantage point overlooking the entire fireworks display. This spot is especially recommended for those who want to enjoy the combination of the castle town's nighttime scenery and the fireworks. However, trees and other obstacles may block the view in some locations, so it is best to scout the area in advance.

3. Around Kitsuki Junior High School The area around Kitsuki Junior High School, located a little distance from the venue, is another lesser-known spot where you may be able to watch the fireworks in relative peace. It is recommended for those who want to get away from the bustle of the main venue and take their time enjoying the beauty of the display.

4. The embankment in front of the Kitsuki City Health and Welfare Center The embankment in front of the Kitsuki City Health and Welfare Center is another local favorite. Since it is also some distance from the venue, you should be able to avoid the crowds while enjoying a broad view of the fireworks.

These lesser-known viewing spots may not offer the same immersive atmosphere as the main venue, but they are ideal for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the fireworks in a more relaxed setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What time does the fireworks festival start and end? A. The 2026 Kitsuki City Summer Fireworks Festival is scheduled to take place from 20:00 to 20:40 on August 16, 2026 (Sunday).

Q. Is reserved seating available? How much does it cost? A. Yes. Special reserved seating, called the “Kitsuki Castle Special Viewing Seats,” will be available at Kitsuki Castle. The price is 3,000円 for elementary school students and older, including a drink and snacks. Preschool children are admitted free of charge, but no seats are provided. For details, please contact the Kitsuki City Tourism Association.

Q. Is parking available? Will there be traffic restrictions? A. Approximately 700～800 spaces in free temporary parking lots are expected to be available near the venue. Temporary parking will also be provided near the Kitsuki Kambu Police Box. Please note that traffic restrictions will be in effect around the venue from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the day of the fireworks festival. We recommend using public transportation or arriving early.