A festival held in the summer at Noboribetsu Onsen, a popular hot spring resort in Hokkaido. During the event “Yukijin”, demons considered as guardians of the hot springs, shoot hand-held fireworks into the air in powerful blasts which can rise as high as 8 meters!
Held from early June to late July, from 8:30 p.m.
The denizens of Noboribetsu are kept safe each year by performing a ritual that honors the spirits who protect them. Locals dress as creatures called Yukijin, the oni or demons of Hell Valley, and set off fireworks that light up the night sky. This exciting summer festival is a cherished regional tradition, and after the performance, visitors can take photos with the fantastically masked oni.
Noboribetsu International Tourism and Convention Association
*Dates may be changed. For more detailed information, please refer to the official website.