Sakuragawa City to host Makabe Street Light Juusanya Festival

The 12th Makabe Street Light Juusanya Festival is scheduled to take place on October 10, 2026, in the Makabe district of Sakuragawa City, Ibaraki Prefecture. Described as ‘Japan’s smallest festival,’ the event aims to illuminate the historic streets of Makabe with bamboo lights and lanterns to preserve the local atmosphere for future generations.

Starting at 16:00, the town will be lit by various lanterns, including large-scale displays and handmade lanterns created by local students. The event features a pedestrian-only zone from 14:00 to 19:00, hosting live music performances, workshops, and the ‘Makabe Rakuichi’ food market, which offers local specialties such as curry, soba crepes, and local sake.

Pre-festival workshops for making lanterns are also scheduled for October 3 and the morning of October 10 at the Takaku residence.