# Ayu fish catching festivals in Japan

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/ayu-fish-catching-festivals-in-japan
> Updated: 2026-08-15T20:32:23.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Throughout the summer of 2026, various regions in Japan hosted Ayu (sweetfish) catching festivals aimed at providing family-friendly recreation and promoting river stewardship.

In July, events were held in Hiroshima Prefecture, where approximately 300 participants gathered in Fuchu City to catch fish released into an Ashida River tributary, and in Tochigi Prefecture, where an angling competition was held at Arakawa Water’s Edge Park. 

By August, activities continued in Tochigi Prefecture, notably in Nakagawa Town, where the ‘Nakagawa Ayu Catching 2026’ event drew more than 2,000 participants, including parents and children, for river-based activities.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-15: Tochigi children participate in summer activities

Children in Tochigi Prefecture are enjoying summer activities, including a large-scale sweetfish catching event in Nakagawa Town attended by over 2,000 people.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tochigi-children-participate-in-summer-activities

### 2026-07-18: Japanese towns host Ayu fish catching festivals for families

Family‑focused Ayu fish catching festivals in Hiroshima and Tochigi drew participants who wrestled slippery fish and enjoyed them grilled on site.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/japanese-towns-host-ayu-fish-catching-festivals-for-families

---
Cite as: Ayu fish catching festivals in Japan. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/ayu-fish-catching-festivals-in-japan