A Festival with Deep Local Roots and ground fireworks on the first night of the annual two-day event. The Matsubara Danchi Festival & Hiyama Bon Dance returns this summer for its 60th anniversary. It is a lively community celebration around Matsubara Danchi Nishiguchi Park. This long‑loved local festival marks the end of summer in Soka City with traditional dance, fireworks, family activities, and nostalgic neighborhood charm.
Matsubara Danchi Festival and Hiyama Bon Dance (Odori)
Now in its 60th year, the festival is known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere. Moreover, it is known for its impressive “Hiyama” bon dance circle around a tall central yagura. As evening falls, from around 6 to 9 pm, music fills the park and dancers of all ages join in. The festival is especially popular with families thanks to its variety of activities. They have a water fight activity all day, from before the festival even starts until 4.30 pm. From 1 pm to 3 pm on both days they have workshops. In addition, at 7 pm there is a bingo competition. Food stalls are also available, from noon to 9 pm. It is a lively, nostalgic summer atmosphere that children and adults can enjoy together.
Fireworks to Light Up the Night
One of the highlights is the shikake-hanabi. They are what we might call ground fireworks in English. The type you see at preschool summer events, that fizzle on a line or close to ground. Not the type that are shot high in the air. They are on the Saturday night, August 29th, from 7.30 pm to 8 pm at the Sakae Elementary School Grounds. The fireworks will proceed in light rain but may be cancelled in severe weather.
With its friendly community spirit and classic summer festival energy, Matsubara Danchi Festival offers a gentle, heartwarming way to close out August. Whether you come for the bon dance, the ground fireworks, or simply to enjoy the festive mood, it’s a wonderful chance to experience local culture at its best.
Event Details
Event: Matsubara Danchi Festival & Hiyama Bon Odori Dance 2026 第60回 まつばらだんち祭・日山盆踊り
Date: Saturday August 29th and Sunday August 30th 2026
Time: from 1 pm, with ground fireworks from 7.30 pm to 8 pm on the Saturday only
Cost: there is no admission fee
Venue: Around Matsubara Danchi Nishiguchi Park 松原団地西口公園, 1 Chome-1-10 Matsubara, Sōka, Saitama 340-0041. View on Google Maps.
Access: the park is very close to the West exit of Dokkyo Daigakumae (Soka Matsubara) station on the Tobu Isesaki line.
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