Around Hanabatake Park (Kumamoto Central District / Hinokuni Festival Venue)

Flow of the course

About this spot

Kumamoto's largest-scale festival held in the central Kumamoto district every summer. In 2026, it's scheduled to run for three days from July 31 to August 2. The main highlight is the "Oteomoyans Odori," where various teams from companies, local organizations, and students dance in elaborately designed costumes to the Kumamoto dialect folk song "Oteomoyans." The streets around Hanabatake Park fill with the energy of dancers and spectators. It's Kumamoto's grand summer event held in the castle town with views of Kumamoto Castle, featuring community-wide participation.

Season & hours

Tips

Large-scale traffic restrictions will be in effect around the venue, resulting in heavy congestion. Using public transportation is reassuring. Viewing will be from late afternoon when summer heat remains, so remember frequent hydration and breaks. Front-row viewing with a baby carriage is difficult, so viewing from the rear of the streets is recommended.

Best time to visit

From 5 PM start. After sunset around 6 PM when it becomes cooler, the group dance reaches its peak excitement.

Access & map

熊本県 熊本市中央区・熊本市中心市街地(花畑公園周辺)