【2026】Major June Tourism Events and Festivals in Fukuoka Prefecture

Photogenic! Summer Solstice Sunset at Futamigaura

Located in Genkai Quasi-National Park in the northern part of Itoshima City, "Futamigaura" is a designated scenic spot of the prefecture. While Futamiura in Ise City, Mie Prefecture is known as "Futamiura of the Sunrise," this location is called "Futamigaura of the Sunset" in praise of the beautiful sun setting over the Genkai Sea. Beyond the white torii gate stand two giant rocks tied with a sacred shimenawa rope, known as "Meoto-iwa" (Married Couple Rocks) for their close appearance. The mystical sight of the sun setting exactly between them around the summer solstice in June is a must-see! The "Blue Hour," the time before sunrise and after sunset when the sky turns a deep blue, is also magical, making it a photogenic spot popular with photographers.

Summer Solstice 2026: Sunday, June 21

Asakura's Triple Water Wheels Start Operation

"Asakura's Triple Water Wheels" are the oldest working water wheels in Japan. Following a Shinto ritual at Suijinja Shrine, a sluice gate that passes through a massive underground rock bed is opened. This marks the start of the irrigation season for Asakura's group of water wheels, which remain in operation until early October.

Commencement Ceremony (Tonsu-shiki): Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Operating Period (Typical): June 17 – Early October

A mystical and delicate dance of light! Firefly watching

Yamakawa Firefly Watching (Miyama City)

The "Kamachiyama Reservoir" was the only spot in the prefecture selected by popular vote in the "Top 100 Reservoirs" contest held by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in March 2020. In the lush upstream area surrounded by nature, Genji fireflies can be seen dancing in the air from late May to early June.

Dates: June 3 (Wed) – 9 (Tue), 2026

Fireflies are very fragile creatures. Using strong lights such as car headlights, flashlights, or camera flashes is strictly prohibited. Because they weaken easily when touched, please do not catch them and instead enjoy observing them quietly with your eyes only.

Aka Village Firefly Watching Event (Aka Village)

In nature-rich Aka Village, tour the village's firefly spots by chartered bus. This event includes commentary from the volunteer group "Hotaru no Kai" (Firefly Society) and a hot spring admission ticket. We invite you to relax in the hot spring before heading out for firefly watching.

Dates: May 29 (Fri) – 31 (Sun) and June 5 (Fri) – 7 (Sun), 2026
Yamada Firefly Festival (Kitakyushu City)

Opening hours are extended to coincide with the firefly season. You can leisurely observe Genji fireflies that inhabit the lawn square. During this period, a special guided tour called the "Firefly Exploration Team" will also be held.

Dates: May 29 (Fri) – 31 (Sun), June 5 (Fri) – 7 (Sun), and June 12 (Fri) – 14 (Sun), 2026
Munakata Firefly Village Park (Munakata City)

During the firefly season from late May to mid-June, many visitors flock to the park to witness the mystical sight of swarming fireflies. At the "Firefly House" (Hotaru no Yakata) within the park, you can observe firefly ecology and breeding habits, with detailed explanations provided by the "Munakata Water and Greenery Association - Firefly Section."

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Kure Dam Mountain Stream Park (Kawara Town)

There are no specific firefly events, but you can still enjoy firefly watching.
(The image is for illustrative purposes only.)
Tanada Shinsui Park (Toho Village)

This park is popular for its river pool, which was developed by drawing water from the Hojusan River. Every year from late May to mid-June, visitors can witness a mystical display of dancing fireflies.

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Refreshing sights and sounds... Wind bell and windmill spots

Arahito Shrine Windmill Corridor (Nakagawa City)

Arahito Shrine is well-loved for its blessings of "warding off evil," "good luck," and "matchmaking." From spring to early summer, colorful windmills spin with a light sound, creating a brilliant view. It is an ideal SNS-worthy spot that visitors can enjoy in any season.

Dates: Underway until mid-June 2026
Nyoirinji Temple(Frog Temple) Wind Bell Festival (Ogori City)

Also known by the nickname "Frog Temple," Nyoirinji welcomes visitors with approximately 10,000 frog statues. Wind bells are believed to ward off evil, and thousands of them are displayed throughout the temple grounds, each carrying a wish for a safe summer.

Dates: Underway until late August 2026 (Scheduled)

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Mitsui Temple Wind Bell Tunnel (Tagawa City)

Locally known as "Wind Bell Temple," a tunnel of approximately 10,000 wind bells—2.5m wide and 50m long—appears in the garden next to the main hall. Visitors can enjoy the collaboration with carp streamers (koinobori) until May 31 (Sat), followed by a display of mini umbrellas and wind bells until August 31 (Mon).

Dates: Underway until August 31 (Mon), 2026

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Sannoji Wind Bell Festival (Sasaguri Town)

One of the sites of the Sasaguri Shikoku 88 Temples Pilgrimage, Sannoji is also known as "Tanuki Temple" due to the many raccoon dog (tanuki) statues found throughout its grounds. During the "Wind Bell Festival," approximately 5,000 colorful wind bells are displayed, attracting many visitors with their beautiful melodies.

Dates: Underway until October 4 (Sun), 2026

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Wind bells appear after the windmills!

At Arahito Shrine, the grounds are adorned with various seasonal decorations such as "Hana-toro" (flower lanterns) and "Koi-bonbori" (love paper lanterns). Following the windmills, wind bells will now make their debut. Hundreds of wind bells in blue, vitamin colors, and rainbow colors are hung, with special light-ups held at night. Visitors can enjoy a mystical atmosphere that differs from the daytime.

Dates: Early July – Mid-September 2026 (Scheduled)

Enjoy seasonal delicacies!

Fukutsu Tai Chazuke Fair (Fukutsu City)

Sixteen restaurants across Fukutsu City are serving "Tai Chazuke" (sea bream over rice with broth) made with fresh red sea bream caught in the Genkai Sea. You can enjoy a wide variety of Tai Chazuke, ranging from classic styles to unique, creative versions.

Dates: May 15 (Fri) – June 28 (Fri), 2026

Jojima Etsu Festival (Kurume City)

The "Etsu" (Japanese grenadier anchovy) is known as a "phantom fish" that can only be tasted for about three months every year, from May 1 to July 20. This festival is held in June, the peak season when it is most delicious. You can enjoy various Etsu dishes, such as deep-fried Etsu, Etsu Nanban, and the Jojima Etsu Burger.

Date: June 7 (Sun), 2026
Tachiarai Edamame Harvest Festival (Tachiarai Town)

In addition to "edamame" (green soybeans) with a rich aroma and deep flavor and "sweet corn," this festival features a wide array of gourmet specialties from local restaurants. There are also plenty of fun activities, including a "boiled edamame grab" and bingo games.

Dates: June 13 (Sat) – 14 (Sun), 2026
Morning-harvested Koga Sweet Corn Festival (Koga City)

This festival features the direct sale of "Morning-harvested Koga Sweet Corn," which is as sweet as a dessert with an average sugar content of over 18 degrees—exceeding even that of a melon. Please come and taste the fresh sweet corn harvested in the early morning when its sweetness is at its peak.

Date: June 28 (Sun), 2026

Early Summer Flower Tour ① Irises

Miyajidake Jinja Shobu (Iris) Flower Festival (Fukutsu City)

Approximately 100 varieties and 100,000 Edo irises bloom in elegant shades of purple and white, decorating the shrine grounds and the stairs leading to the approach. During the festival, the area is lit up until 21:00, creating a mystical world of the shrine buildings and irises. On May 31 (Sat), the "Edo Iris First Harvest Ritual" will be held.

Dates: May 23 (Sat) – June 14 (Sun), 2026

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Tobata Iris Festival 2026 (Kitakyushu City)

While approximately 20,000 Japanese irises are in bloom, various activities such as stage events, bazaars, and flea markets are held. Fire engines, police cars, and food trucks will also make an appearance. From May 21 (Thu) to June 14 (Sun), 2026, the Japanese irises at Yomiyachi Pond will be lit up at night.

Date: June 7 (Sun), 2026
Hanashobu Matsuri (Iris Festival) in Toyotsu Athletic Park (Miyako Town)

At Miyako Town Toyotsu Iris Park, you can enjoy approximately 50 varieties, 3,000 clumps, and 40,000 irises in full bloom. On the event days, local Kagura troupes and music groups will perform on stage, and there will be stalls selling local specialties and food trucks.

Dates: June 13 (Sat) – 14 (Sun), 2026

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Early Summer Flower Tour ② Hydrangeas

Hakozakigu Shrine Hydrangea Festival (Fukuoka City)

Established in 1991 in the western part of the shrine grounds to commemorate the Heisei era's accession to the throne, this "Shin-en" (sacred garden) features about 100 varieties and 3,500 hydrangeas. They bloom beautifully with the main hall as a backdrop, bringing peace to the hearts of visitors.

Dates: June 1 (Mon) – 30 (Tue), 2026
Jorinji Temple Hydrangea Festival (Omuta City)

The temple's eastern garden is called "Raitei" (Stone Garden), where colorful hydrangeas planted among the remains of ancient fallen rocks reach their peak bloom. During the festival, the garden is specially opened for viewing from the inner guest rooms.

Dates: June 5 (Fri) – 14 (Sun), 2026
Edagawa-uchi Hydrangea Festival (Buzen City)

Since 2001, local residents and volunteers have been planting hydrangeas in the Edagawa-uchi and Iwaya districts, located in the hilly and mountainous areas of Buzen City. Approximately 16,000 hydrangeas, carefully maintained over the years, reach their peak bloom in mid-June every year.

Dates: June 6 (Sat) – June 21 (Sun), 2026
Senkoji Temple Hydrangea Festival (Kurume City)

Established in 1192 by inviting Eisai Zenji (Senko Kokushi), the founder of the Rinzai sect, this is a Zen temple of the Soto sect. About 7,000 hydrangeas bloom across the mountainside, and the temple is affectionately known as the "Hydrangea Temple."

Dates: June 6 (Sat) – June 28 (Sun), 2026
Wakamatsu Hydrangea Festival (Kitakyushu City)

Mount Takato is one of the leading hydrangea spots in the prefecture, with approximately 74,500 hydrangeas in full bloom. Various events themed around these flowers are held within the park.

Dates: June 7 (Sun), 14 (Sun), and 21 (Sun), 2026
Shiraito Hydrangea Festival (Itoshima City)

Around Shiraito Falls, approximately 5,000 clumps and 100,000 hydrangeas are planted, reaching their peak from mid-June to late July. On the day of the festival, there will be mochi-maki (rice cake throwing) and gifts of hydrangea cuttings!

Date: June 27 (Sat), 2026 (Scheduled)

Other Featured Events

Fukuoka Bordeaux Wine Festival 2026 (Fukuoka City)

This Bordeaux wine celebration began in 2017 to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the sister city relationship between Fukuoka City and Bordeaux, France. You can taste and compare as many as 100 different types of wine, ranging from those with mild tannins to rich, full-bodied selections.

Dates: May 15 (Fri) – June 14 (Sun), 2026
Kora Taisha Shrine’s Kawatarisai Festival (Hekokaki Matsuri Festival) (Kurume City)

This festival involves passing through a large Chinowa (a ring made of cogon grass) to pray for protection against evil and for longevity and health. During the month of June, special "Chinowa Amulets" are granted to visitors. In the early morning of the 1st, the "Hekokaki Hadaka Mairi" (naked pilgrimage) takes place, where men and children wearing red fundoshi (loincloths) run up Mt. Kora to offer prayers.

Dates: June 1 (Mon) & 2 (Tue), 2026

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Monpe Expo (Fukuoka City & Yame City)

The "Monpe Expo" explores the appeal of Kurume Kasuri and monpe (traditional Japanese work pants) through exhibitions and sales. In addition to Kurume Kasuri, the expo features monpe made from textiles produced in various regions across Japan. A bus tour to visit Kurume Kasuri weaving studios will be held on June 27 (Sat).

Dates:
LaLaport Fukuoka: June 4 (Thu) – 7 (Sun), 2026
Unagi no Nedoko (Old Terasaki Residence): June 25 (Thu) – July 6 (Mon), 2026
Agano Green Festa 2026 (Fukuchi Town)

Greenery to decorate your life gathers in the village of Agano-yaki pottery, which boasts a history of over 420 years. In addition to a 10% discount on all items from participating potteries, there are plenty of fun activities, including collaborative products between plant shops and potteries, a grand lottery, workshops, and hands-on experiences like painting and using a pottery wheel.

Dates: June 6 (Sat) & 7 (Sun), 2026
Kokura Factory Railway Land Special Tour (Kitakyushu City)

Enjoy a day immersed in the world of trains at JR Kyushu's "Kokura Factory Railway Land" (Kokura General Rolling Stock Center)! The tour includes factory visits, train broadcasting experiences, uniform fittings, and mini-train rides. For lunch, you can enjoy a curry and udon set at the staff cafeteria, "Tsubame Shokudo."

Date: June 20 (Sat), 2026
Application Deadline: June 14 (Fri), 2026

Let's Go Blueberry Picking!

Blueberries, which reach their peak from early summer through summer, are a popular fruit known for their sweet and sour flavor and rich nutrition. From around June to September, blueberry picking spots will be opening one after another throughout Fukuoka Prefecture.

A guide to enjoying fruit picking in Fukuoka

Spots to Enjoy Even in the Rain

Rain is in the forecast for your planned trip or outing... But don't worry! We'll introduce spots like aquariums and museums recommended for families and dates where you can fully enjoy yourself indoors, regardless of the weather.

Marine World Uminonakamichi (Fukuoka City)

With the theme "Seas of Kyushu," this aquarium exhibits 30,000 marine creatures across 350 species. The interactive areas where you can feel close to animals like seals and penguins are very popular. During Golden Week, summer vacation, and weekends/holidays in September, opening hours are extended until 21:00 for the special "Night Aquarium" event.

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Kyushu National Museum (Dazaifu City)

Under the theme of "Cultural Exchange between Asia and Japan," the Cultural Exchange Exhibition on the 4th floor displays 800 to 900 artifacts at all times. On the 1st floor, the free exhibition room "Ajippa" allows visitors to see, touch, and experience Asian traditional costumes, daily necessities, toys, and music—a place where even adults can get absorbed in the fun!

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Kirin Beer Fukuoka Factory (Asakura City)

On this factory tour, you can experience the production process and the craftsmanship behind "Ichiban Shibori." Feel the depth of beer through activities such as tasting malt, experiencing the aroma of hops, and comparing the flavors of the "first press" (Ichiban Shibori) and "second press" (Niban Shibori) wort.

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Fukuoka City Science Museum (Fukuoka City)

This facility offers a fun way to experience science through interactive exhibitions like "Future" and various science shows. The powerful visuals at the Dome Theater (planetarium), one of the largest in Kyushu, are truly impressive and a must-see!

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BOSS E･ZO FUKUOKA (Fukuoka City)

Located adjacent to the Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka, this entertainment complex is packed with world-class innovative content, including attractions with stunning views and the latest interactive museums.

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In July, focus on the "Gion Festivals" and "Yamakasa" held across the region!

Starting with Fukuoka's iconic summer festival, "Hakata Gion Yamakasa," you can witness various Gion and Yamakasa festivals throughout the prefecture, such as "Tobata Gion Oyamakasa," "Kanda Yamakasa," and "Kokura Gion Taiko." Experience the grandeur of these unique and heroic floats, and feel the beauty of these long-standing traditional events!