Shiga – July 25 Kusatsu Reed Torch Festival Fireworks

Access

The area around the venue becomes extremely crowded around the fireworks display, so using public transportation is recommended.

By Train and Bus

The nearest station is Kusatsu Station on the JR Biwako Line. From Kusatsu Station, take a local bus bound for “Lake Biwa Museum”; the ride takes approximately 25 minutes to the “Mizunomori” bus stop. The venue is just a short walk from the bus stop.

【Important Notes】 Around 19:50, when the fireworks are scheduled to begin, the last buses returning to Kusatsu Station may have already finished operating. If you plan to use public transportation, be sure to check the return bus timetable in advance. In particular, if you intend to stay until the end of the fireworks, consider alternative transportation such as a taxi or the park-and-ride option described below.

By Car

The venue is approximately 30 minutes from the Ritto IC on the Meishin Expressway, or approximately 35 minutes from the Seta-Nishi IC on the Meishin Expressway or the Kusatsu-Tanaka IC on the Shin-Meishin Expressway.

【Parking Information】 Approximately 1,000 free parking spaces are expected to be available around the venue. However, parking areas will be opened in stages, so please follow the instructions of the attendants.

• By 17:00: The Lake Biwa Museum's visitor parking lot operates normally and charges its usual fees. Until then, visitors will be directed to the temporary parking lot in the central area of the Karasuma Peninsula.
• After 17:00: Parking spaces designated for the Lake Biwa Museum will also become available.

Parking areas will also be extremely crowded around the fireworks, so please arrive with plenty of time to spare or consider using public transportation.

Reserved Seats and Tickets

As of now (July 2026), no official details have been announced regarding the specific types or prices of reserved seating for the 2026 Kusatsu Reed Torch Festival Fireworks. Reserved seats may be offered in some years, so please check the official website for the latest information.

If reserved seating is made available, it offers the advantage of enjoying the fireworks and reed torches more comfortably and from a closer vantage point than the general viewing areas. We recommend considering purchasing tickets promptly once an announcement is made.

Lesser-Known Viewing Spots

The area around the Karasuma Peninsula Special Event Venue draws many visitors, but you can also enjoy the beautiful sight of the fireworks and reed torches from a little farther away. Here are 3 lesser-known spots where you can enjoy the fireworks while avoiding some of the crowds.

1. Yabasekihanto Park This expansive park is located on the opposite shore of Lake Biwa and is also known as a viewing spot for the Lake Biwa Grand Fireworks Festival. Although it is some distance from the venue, you can relax and enjoy the fireworks rising across Lake Biwa along with the glow of the reed torches. The park has spacious grassy areas and is recommended for those who want to spread out a picnic sheet and watch the fireworks in comfort. Parking is available, but the area is expected to be crowded on the day.

2. Aeon Mall Kusatsu Rooftop Parking Lot Relatively close to the venue, this location may offer views of the fireworks from above. However, because it is a commercial facility's parking lot, you must check with the facility in advance regarding whether it will be open and whether viewing will be permitted on the day. Please also note that parking may be unavailable depending on crowd levels.

3. Area Around Rock Bay Garden Located near the Karasuma Peninsula, Rock Bay Garden will host “Karasumarche（からすマルシェ）” as a night market on the same day as the fireworks festival. Nearly 30 shops will set up stalls, and visitors can also enjoy stage performances such as hula dancing. The fireworks can be seen from the grassy area here, and approximately 200 parking spaces are available, making it a recommended spot for those who want to enjoy both the event and the fireworks while avoiding the main crowds.

These lesser-known spots are also expected to be crowded on the day. We recommend arriving early, using public transportation, and checking information about traffic restrictions in the surrounding area in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Will the fireworks festival be held if it rains? A. The Kusatsu Reed Torch Festival Fireworks will go ahead in rainy weather, but the event will be canceled in severe weather. Cancellation decisions are often announced on the official website during the morning or afternoon of the day, so be sure to check the latest information before setting out.

Q. Are reserved seats available? Where can I purchase tickets? A. As of now, no official announcement has been confirmed regarding reserved seating for 2026. Reserved seats may be offered in some years, but please wait for details to be announced on the official website. Once announced, tickets may be sold through the official website and various ticket agencies.

Q. Are there places to buy food around the venue? A. Yes, food and drink stalls and food trucks are scheduled to be available inside the venue. You can enjoy local cuisine while taking in the festival and fireworks. However, some festival stalls may not accept electronic payments, so we recommend bringing cash as well.