Yamaga Lantern Romance: Hyakka Hyakusai: A Fantastic Illumination Festival Coloring Yamaga in Winter
“Yamaga Lantern Romance: Hyakka Hyakusai,” held every winter in Yamaga City, Kumamoto Prefecture, is a fantastical illumination festival with a charm different from the summer “Yamaga Lantern Festival.” This time, we will fully convey the allure of this event.
The Toyosaki-kaido Road Transformed into a Magical Space!
The old townscape of the historic Toyosaki-kaido Road is adorned with Japanese umbrellas, objects made of bamboo, and the light of thousands of candles.
The fantastic scenery created by the soft light captivates visitors, immersing them in a feeling as if they have transcended time and space.
Enjoy Traditional Performing Arts at the Yachiyoza Theater
During the event period, various traditional performing arts are showcased at the Yachiyoza Theater, a designated important cultural property. You can experience Japanese traditional culture while surrounded by beautiful lights.
A Winter Tradition Coloring Yamaga
Yamaga Lantern Romance: Hyakka Hyakusai is a representative event of winter in Yamaga, loved by local people.
Why not spend a special time in a magical space enveloped in light?
Basic Information
| Item | Content |
| Event Period | Every Friday and Saturday in February |
| Time | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
| Admission Fee | “Yamaga Fūkei Monogatari” requires an entrance fee of 1,000 yen (including a 400-yen shopping voucher) |
| Location | Along the Toyosaki-kaido Road in various parts of Yamaga Onsen (Yachiyoza Theater, Toyosaki-kaido, Kongojo-ji Temple, Yunohana Park, Onsen Plaza Yamaga, Sakura-yu Bath, etc.) |
| Access | – Short walk from the Yamaga Onsen (Yachiyoza entrance) bus stop – Approximately 30 km from Kumamoto Airport via National Route 325, about 50 minutes by car – Approximately 12 km from Ueki IC on the Kyushu Expressway via National Route 3, about 20 minutes by car – Approximately 10 km from Kikusi IC via Prefectural Route 16, about 15 minutes by car |
| Phone Number | 0968-43-2952 (Yamaga Onsen Tourism Association) |
| Parking | Available (Toyosaki-kaido Parking Lot / Free) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is it held?
A: It is usually held on Fridays and Saturdays in February. In 2025, it will be held only on Fridays and Saturdays from February 7th (Fri) to March 1st (Sat).
Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Basically, it is free. However, events held at the Yachiyoza Theater (such as Yamaga taiko performances and Yamaga lantern dances) are paid.
Q: Is parking available?
A: There is a free parking lot for 300 vehicles. However, as it is expected to be crowded during the event period, please consider using public transportation.
Q: What should I wear?
A: February is a cold time of year, so please take adequate measures against the cold. Especially at night, it gets cold, so it is reassuring to have a coat, scarf, and gloves. Also, since some areas around the venue are dark, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
Q: How dark is the venue?
A: The lights are mainly from bamboo lanterns and Japanese umbrellas, so the overall brightness is subdued. Please be careful when walking. It’s helpful to bring a flashlight.
Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, you can take photos. However, the use of tripods may be restricted depending on the congestion. Please be considerate of others when taking photos.
Q: Can I bring pets?
A: It is not specifically mentioned, but due to the expected congestion and the fact that some places are dark, you need to be very careful if you bring pets.
Q: What is a lighting volunteer?
A: If you bring a lighter with a long handle, you can participate as a volunteer to light the candles. It is a valuable opportunity to enliven the event together.
Q: What kind of events are held at the Yachiyoza Theater?
A: At the Yachiyoza Theater, a designated important cultural property, events such as Yamaga taiko performances and Yamaga lantern dances are held for a fee.