Kumamoto festivals canceled amid earthquake and storm disruptions

The 2025 Yamak Lantern Festival held on August 15‑16 attracted about 120,000 visitors, but a sudden thunderstorm forced the cancellation of the "Thousand Lantern Dance" and other program elements on August 16. Organizers announced ticket refunds for the special viewing seats.

In Kumamoto City, the Fujisaki Hachiman Shrine announced the postponement of its annual grand festival's Shinkō procession and horse‑offering ceremonies, originally scheduled for September 20, due to the Reiwa‑8 Kumamoto earthquake. Other shrine rites will continue as planned.

Both events illustrate how natural disasters are disrupting traditional cultural celebrations in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan.