Kagawa Marugame Castle Festival Fireworks

Access

The nearest station is JR Marugame Station. It is said to take approximately 3 minutes on foot from JR Marugame Station to Marugame Boat Racecourse.

By public transportation:

• From JR Marugame Station, you can walk toward the venue.
• Traffic restrictions are put in place on the day of the festival, and areas around Marugame Castle and near the shopping arcades may become pedestrian-only during certain periods.
• Marugame City's community buses may offer free fares on all routes throughout the day during the Castle Festival (5月3日・4日), but separate confirmation is required for the fireworks period.
• Roads and trains heading toward JR Marugame Station are expected to be extremely crowded after the fireworks. To help avoid the crowds, consider making a reservation at a nearby restaurant and delaying your departure. Be sure to check the time of the last train as well.

By car:

• From the Sakaide-kita IC on the Seto-Chuo Expressway, it takes approximately 20 minutes to reach Marugame Boat Racecourse via the Sanuki Hamakaido.
• From the Sakaide IC on the Takamatsu Expressway, it takes approximately 15 minutes to reach Marugame Boat Racecourse via National Route 11, Shido Doki Line, and the Sanuki Hamakaido.
• Traffic restrictions are imposed on the day of the fireworks, and surrounding roads become extremely congested. As parking is limited, using public transportation is recommended.
• Marugame Boat Racecourse has free parking (2200 spaces), but congestion is expected.

Paid Seating and Tickets

As of 2026年7月, no official announcement regarding paid seating for the Marugame Basara Festival Fireworks could be confirmed. In the past, it has been reported that no paid ticket information was available. For the latest information, check the official website of the Marugame Basara Festival Executive Committee (located within the Marugame Chamber of Commerce and Industry), among other sources.

Lesser-Known Viewing Spots

Here are several lesser-known spots where you can enjoy the fireworks in comfort.

• Marugame Boat Racecourse Free parking is available, and you may be able to watch the fireworks from inside the facility, making this a relatively comfortable option. However, it is a popular spot, so arriving early is recommended.
• Minato Park Food stalls set up here on the day of the fireworks, creating a lively festival atmosphere. It is also relatively close to the launch site, allowing you to enjoy powerful fireworks.
• Around Marugame Castle Although it is on the opposite side from the launch site, you can enjoy the picturesque sight of fireworks rising behind Marugame Castle. The crowds also tend to be somewhat lighter.
• Yojima This small island in the Seto Inland Sea is some distance from the launch site, but that distance means you can watch the fireworks at a more relaxed pace. It is recommended for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the fireworks leisurely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Are the Marugame Castle Festival and the Marugame Basara Festival Fireworks the same event? A. No, they are separate events. The Marugame Castle Festival is held around Marugame Castle in early May each year and does not include a fireworks display. The Marugame Basara Festival Fireworks, on the other hand, is a fireworks event held at Marugame Port in August each year.

Q. What happens if it rains during the fireworks display? A. The event goes ahead in light rain, but it may be canceled in severe weather. Check the official website and other sources for the latest event information.

Q. Will there be food stalls around the venue? A. Yes, food stalls set up at places such as Minato Park on the day of the fireworks, allowing you to enjoy the festival atmosphere.