Nasushiobara and Sasebo revive summer festivals across Japan

Nasushiobara City in Tochigi Prefecture announced a series of summer events, including the 109th Bon Dance Festival on August 8‑9 with a rain‑contingency plan, the "Viehfest" dairy celebration on September 6 featuring milk‑toasting and calf‑watching activities, the 20th Nasu no Furusato fireworks display on September 19 with a drone show, and the traditional Shiohara Onsen hot‑spring ceremony on September 27.

In Sasebo, Nagasaki Prefecture, the Bon‑dance festival returned after a half‑century hiatus, running from August 14‑16 at Shimae Park. The three‑day event opened with a drum performance, hosted a yukata contest for children and students, and concluded with a mochi‑throwing finale, aiming to create lasting summer memories for local residents.