Official Beppu Christmas Hanabi 2026 Event Dates

The fireworks festival typically takes place over a weekend in late December. For 2026, the event is scheduled for Saturday, December 19, and Sunday, December 20. These dates allow families and tourists to enjoy the show during their winter break. You can find more official updates from the Visit Oita tourism board website.

This two-day celebration is known locally as the Beppu Christmas Fantasia. It is one of the largest winter fireworks displays in the Kyushu region. The city expects high attendance numbers for both nights of the 2026 season. Plan your travel itinerary early to avoid missing this spectacular light show.

Saturday usually features a more traditional Christmas theme with classic holiday songs. Sunday often includes a "Children's Christmas" theme with popular modern hits. Both nights offer a unique atmosphere that captures the holiday spirit perfectly. Travelers often prefer the Sunday show for its high-energy musical performances.

Beppu is very busy during these specific weekend dates in December. Hotels near the bay often sell out several months in advance. You should book your accommodation as soon as the dates are confirmed. This ensures you have a comfortable place to stay near the event venue.

Beppu Christmas Hanabi 2026 Schedule and Times

The Beppu Christmas Hanabi 2026 schedule and times follow a precise evening timeline. Musical performances and stage events usually begin around 5:00 PM at Matogahama Beach. These local acts build excitement before the main fireworks display begins. You can enjoy live singing and dance performances while waiting for sunset.

The main fireworks show is scheduled to start at exactly 8:00 PM each night. This display lasts for approximately 30 to 45 minutes of continuous pyrotechnics. Over 10,000 fireworks are launched into the night sky during the entire weekend. The timing is designed to allow visitors to eat dinner before the show starts.

Each segment of the fireworks is carefully timed to match specific holiday soundtracks. You will hear popular Christmas carols playing through large speakers along the shoreline. The synchronization creates an emotional and immersive experience for everyone on the beach. It is truly a world-class production in a beautiful coastal setting.

The event usually concludes by 9:00 PM to allow for safe travel home. Most food stalls remain open for a short time after the fireworks end. This is a great time to grab a warm snack for the walk back. Be prepared for large crowds leaving the beach area at the same time.

Best Viewing Locations at Matogahama Beach

Matogahama Beach is the primary viewing area for the Christmas fireworks festival. Most people gather on the sand to get a clear view of the bay. You should look for the best spots to watch Beppu fireworks early in the afternoon. Arriving by 6:00 PM will help you secure a good vantage point.

The beach area is divided into free public sections and paid reserved seating. Paid seats offer the best views and include access to private restrooms. These tickets often go on sale in October or November each year. Free areas are located further down the coast toward the Kitahama district.

• Matogahama Beach: The central hub for all music and fireworks.
• Kitahama Park: A slightly quieter spot with excellent views of the bay.
• Beppu Tower: An elevated indoor view for those who dislike the cold.
• Mochigahama Seaside Park: A local favorite for a more relaxed experience.

If you prefer a more private experience, consider booking a room with a sea view. Many hotels along the Kitahama coastline offer direct views of the fireworks from balconies. This allows you to stay warm while enjoying the massive explosions over the water. These rooms are highly sought after for the 2026 event.

Travel Tips for the Beppu Winter Festival

The weather in Beppu during late December can be very cold and windy. You must learn what to wear for Beppu winter fireworks to stay comfortable. Heavy coats, gloves, and thermal undergarments are essential for standing on the beach. The sea breeze makes the temperature feel much colder than it actually is.

Public transportation is the best way to reach the event site from Beppu Station. The walk from the station to Matogahama Beach takes about 15 minutes. Extra buses and trains are usually scheduled to handle the large influx of visitors. Avoid driving your own car as parking near the beach is extremely limited.

Local food stalls, known as yatai, serve delicious warm treats during the festival. You can try hot takoyaki, grilled squid, or steaming bowls of local noodles. These stalls are located along the promenade behind the main beach area. Bring plenty of cash as most small vendors do not accept credit cards.

Many travelers choose to visit a hot spring after the fireworks show ends. This is a perfect way to warm up your body before heading to bed. Beppu is world-famous for its high-quality onsen water and diverse bathing facilities. Most public baths remain open late during the festival weekend for tourists.