Experience the Festival Celebrating Water Unique to This Spring-Fed City

About this spot

The Shimabara Water Festival is held around Chuo Park and Seiryutei in the center of Shimabara City, known as the "City of Water." In 2026, it will be held on August 1st (Saturday), celebrated as a summer festival by local people, honoring the clear spring water that wells up throughout the city. After experiencing the blessings of water throughout the day at Shimabara Castle, Samurai Residence Street, and the Town of Swimming Carp, the festival night offers the culmination of this experience. The park and Seiryutei area, illuminated by lanterns, are bathed in cool evening breezes, creating a perfect atmosphere for families to spend a summer evening together.

Fireworks details

Tips

The festival area can get crowded, and parking lots may fill up early. Using public transportation is recommended. Food stall availability and offerings vary by year, so it's safer to have dinner at Shimabara Central Shopping Arcade beforehand. Keep small children close when near water areas.

Best time to visit

People begin gathering from around 5 PM to enjoy the cool evening, with crowds largest after sunset around 6 PM.

Access & map

Nagasaki Prefecture, Shimabara City, Chuo Park and Seiryutei area