2025 Noboribetsu Oni Fire Festival Complete Guide

27/06/2025

1. Introduction: What Is the Noboribetsu Oni Fire Festival?

The Noboribetsu Oni Fire Festival is a unique summer event held in Hokkaido’s famous hot spring resort town, Noboribetsu Onsen. Known in Japanese as Noboribetsu Jigokudani Oni Hanabi, this festival features powerful tezutsu fireworks, traditional handheld bamboo tube fireworks, combined with spectacular performances by actors dressed as “Oni,” or demons.

🔥 Why is this festival special?

Unlike regular fireworks displays, this event offers an unforgettable combination of:

Enormous fire pillars reaching up to 8 meters into the night sky
Demons carrying and firing the fireworks by hand
The dramatic backdrop of Noboribetsu’s Hell Valley (Jigokudani), a volcanic crater filled with steam vents and sulfurous hot springs

This extraordinary atmosphere makes the Oni Fire Festival one of the most photogenic and culturally rich festivals in Hokkaido, perfect for travelers seeking something beyond typical summer fireworks.

1-1. History and Cultural Significance of Oni and Tezutsu Fireworks 🎇

Oni are mythical demons or ogres in Japanese folklore. They are believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the area from misfortune. During the festival, performers wear striking Oni masks and costumes, symbolizing strength and purification.

Tezutsu fireworks have been part of Japanese tradition for centuries. Unlike aerial fireworks, these handheld fireworks create a powerful vertical flame that requires skill and courage to control. They are often used in ritual events to honor deities and celebrate seasonal milestones.

This blend of folklore, ritual, and artistry makes the Noboribetsu Oni Fire Festival a truly authentic Japanese experience.

1-2. Why It’s a Must-See Event in Hokkaido ✨

If you’re traveling in Hokkaido during June, July, or September, this festival should be high on your list. Here’s why:

✅ Exclusive Experience:

You won’t find anything similar in other regions. This is a local tradition unique to Noboribetsu.

✅ Perfect for Photography and Social Media:

With the combination of fire, costumes, and the dramatic volcanic landscape, your photos will be unforgettable.

✅ Family-Friendly:

The show lasts about 20 minutes and is safe for children to watch (though it can be loud).

✅ Convenient Access:

Located just 1.5 hours from Sapporo and accessible by public transportation.

Whether you’re a culture lover, photographer, or traveling family, the Oni Fire Festival offers a memorable summer night in Japan.

📝 Key Takeaway:

The Noboribetsu Oni Fire Festival combines powerful visuals, deep cultural meaning, and a welcoming atmospherethat attracts visitors from around the world.

2. 2025 Event Schedule and Highlights

In 2025, the Noboribetsu Oni Fire Festival will be held on multiple dates across the summer, offering plenty of chances to witness this spectacular performance.

2-1. Dates and Times 📅

The festival dates are as follows:

✅ Opening Ceremony:

June 1 (Sunday), 2025

✅ June:

Every Monday and Thursday

✅ July:

Every Thursday

✅ September:

Every Thursday

🕒 Time:

Venue Opens: 7:00 PM
Fireworks Show Starts: 8:00 PM
Duration: Approximately 20 minutes

Note:

There are no events scheduled in August, as other summer events take place in the area during that time.

2-2. Special Performances and What to Expect 🎭🔥

The show includes:

Oni Performers:Actors dressed as demons walk through the venue carrying massive handheld fireworks.
Tezutsu Fireworks:8-meter flames erupt dramatically from bamboo tubes.
Traditional Rituals:Before the fireworks, performers enact purification rituals to ward off evil spirits.
Lighting and Effects:Smoke and fire illuminate Hell Valley, creating a surreal and unforgettable atmosphere.

Visitors often describe the experience as both thrilling and beautiful, blending traditional Japanese culture with the raw power of volcanic nature.

📝 Key Tip:

Plan to arrive early, especially on the opening day and weekends, as these are the most crowded times.

3. How to Get There: Transportation Guide for Foreign Visitors

Noboribetsu Onsen is one of Hokkaido’s most famous hot spring towns, and reaching the Oni Fire Festival is straightforward if you plan ahead. This section will explain how to access the venue from major transportation hubs.

3-1. From Sapporo and New Chitose Airport ✈️🚉

✅ From Sapporo Station:

By Train:
- Take the JR Limited Express “Hokuto” bound for Hakodate.
- Travel time: Approximately 70 minutes.
- Get off at Noboribetsu Station.
From Noboribetsu Station to Noboribetsu Onsen:
- Take a local bus (Donan Bus) from the station to the Onsen area.
- Travel time: 15 minutes.

✅ From New Chitose Airport:

By Train:
- Take the JR Rapid Airport Express to Minami-Chitose Station.
- Transfer to the JR Limited Express Hokuto.
- Total travel time: 70–80 minutes.
By Direct Bus:
- Airport shuttle buses are available (reservation recommended).
- Travel time: 60–90 minutes depending on traffic.

3-2. Using Public Transport vs. Rental Cars 🚗🚌

✅ Public Transport Advantages:

No parking worries.
Affordable and reliable schedules.
English signage is available at major stations.

✅ Rental Car Advantages:

Flexibility to explore the Noboribetsu area before or after the festival.
Easier for families or groups with luggage.

✅ Important:

Parking near the festival venue is very limited.
If you drive, arrive well before 6:00 PM to secure a space.

3-3. Parking Options and Tips 🅿️

There are two main parking areas:

Main Parking Lot (near the Hell Valley entrance):
- Approx. 70 spaces.
- Usually full by 6:00 PM on event days.
- Fee: ~500 yen per car.
Overflow Parking:
- Located further down Noboribetsu Onsen Street.
- Additional walking required (5–10 minutes).

Tip:

If you stay overnight at a ryokan (Japanese inn), you can usually park at the hotel and walk to the venue.

📝 Key Takeaway:

✅ Reserve enough travel time.

✅ Use public transport if possible.

✅ Plan to arrive early to avoid last-minute stress.

4. Ticket Guide: Where and How to Buy Tickets

To enjoy the Noboribetsu Oni Fire Festival up close, you will need a ticket for the paid viewing area. Here’s everything you need to know about tickets and how to secure yours.

4-1. Types of Tickets (Paid and Free Viewing Areas) 🎟️

There are two main options for watching the event:

✅ Paid Viewing Area:

Located in the main observation deck and walkway.
Offers the best view of the Oni performers and fireworks.
Capacity: Approximately 1,000 people per day.

✅ Free Viewing Area:

Located around the entrance road and parking area.
No ticket required.
Limited visibility and likely to be crowded.
Good for a general atmosphere but not recommended for photography.

4-2. Online Purchase Steps and Payment Methods 💳

Tickets are only sold on the day of each event, starting from 3:00 PM until sold out or until 7:30 PM.

✅ How to Buy Online (Recommended):

Visit the official ticket platform Zaiko.
Select your event date.
Log in or create a free account.
Choose the number of tickets.
Complete payment.

✅ Payment Methods:

Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, JCB)
Convenience Store Payment (requires payment within a set time)
Mobile Payment (PayPay, LINE Pay)
Carrier Billing (Docomo, AU, SoftBank)

✅ Important Notes:

No ticket sales at the event entrance.
Tickets often sell out early on popular dates (opening day, weekends).
Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded or canceled except in case of event cancellation.

4-3. What to Do if Tickets Are Sold Out 🚫

If you miss the ticket window:

You can still try the free viewing area (limited visibility).
Consider visiting on another date.
Follow the official website and social media accounts for updates and last-minute availability.

📝 Key Takeaway:

✅ Buy your ticket online at 3:00 PM sharp.

✅ Have your payment ready in advance.

✅ Download or screenshot your QR code for entry.

5. Best Viewing and Photo Spots

The Noboribetsu Oni Fire Festival is famous for being one of the most photogenic events in Hokkaido. Here are the top locations to get the perfect shot.

5-1. Top 5 Recommended Locations 📸

✅ 1. Main Observation Deck (Paid Area)

The best spot to see the Oni up close.
Perfect for frontal photos of the performers and fire pillars.
Arrive early to secure your position.

✅ 2. Walkway Side (Paid Area)

Capture the Oni walking along the path with flames overhead.
Great for dynamic photos showing movement.

✅ 3. Bridge Area

A unique perspective of the Oni approaching.
Excellent for vertical shots that show the scale of the 8-meter fire pillars.

✅ 4. Entrance Road (Free Area)

Offers a wide-angle view of the valley and fireworks.
Less crowded but limited visibility.

✅ 5. Behind the Observation Deck

Ideal for silhouette shots with the flames in the background.
More creative and atmospheric.

5-2. Tips for Taking Great Photos and Videos 🎥

✅ Timing:

The fire pillars are most stable in the middle of the performance.
Take continuous shots or burst mode to catch the perfect moment.

✅ Lighting:

Lower your exposure slightly to avoid overexposure from the flames.
Use night mode if available.

✅ Composition:

Try vertical framing to include the Oni and the entire flame.
Consider including the audience for a sense of scale.

5-3. Photography Etiquette 🙏

Avoid blocking others’ view with tripods or extended arms.
No flash photography—it distracts performers and other guests.
Share your photos respectfully and credit the event if possible.
Be mindful of privacy when posting pictures of other visitors.

📝 Key Takeaway:

✅ Arrive early, choose your spot carefully, and prepare your camera settings in advance for the best results.

6. Family-Friendly Tips: Enjoying the Event with Kids

The Noboribetsu Oni Fire Festival is designed to be safe and enjoyable for families with children. Here are some tips to make your visit smooth and memorable.

6-1. Facilities for Children and Strollers 👶🛒

✅ Strollers:

Strollers are allowed, but note that the main viewing area can be crowded.
If possible, bring a compact stroller or baby carrier.
Some paths are uneven—hold your child’s hand when moving around.

✅ Child Ticket Policy:

Children under elementary school age enter free in the paid viewing area.
They must be accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket.

6-2. Noise Protection and Safety 🎧

✅ Noise Level:

Tezutsu fireworks are very loud and may scare small children.
Bring ear protection (earmuffs or earplugs) for sensitive kids.

✅ Heat and Fire Safety:

Do not approach performers or fireworks areas.
Follow staff instructions at all times.

✅ Crowd Awareness:

Hold your child’s hand and agree on a meeting point in case you get separated.

6-3. Restrooms and Food Options 🍽️

✅ Restrooms:

Public restrooms are available near the observation deck entrance.
Many nearby hotels also offer facilities to guests.

✅ Food and Drinks:

Local stalls sell light snacks and drinks.
You can also bring your own refreshments.
Remember to take all trash with you.

📝 Key Takeaway:

✅ Prepare ear protection, arrive early for less crowded spots, and pack essentials for your kids.

7. Accessibility and Multilingual Support

Noboribetsu Onsen is an international tourist destination, and the Oni Fire Festival offers some accessibility and language support options for visitors with different needs.

7-1. Barrier-Free Access and Wheelchair Info ♿

✅ Wheelchair Access:

The main observation deck is accessible via ramps, but some areas have uneven surfaces.
Staff are available to assist if needed.

✅ Reserved Spaces:

A limited number of spaces are designated for wheelchair users.
Arrive early to secure these areas.

✅ Parking:

Accessible parking is available near the entrance.
Contact your accommodation or the local tourist office for details.

7-2. English Signage and Help Desks 🗣️

✅ English Signage:

Most major signs include English translations.
Directional signage to restrooms, exits, and ticket areas is clearly marked.

✅ Help Desks:

Noboribetsu Tourist Information Center offers basic English support.
Staff at major hotels can also assist with questions.

✅ Printed Guides:

Pamphlets in English, Chinese, and Korean are available at the entrance and visitor centers.

7-3. Useful Apps and Websites 📱

✅ Official Website:

Noboribetsu Onsen Tourist Association
Event details, maps, and ticket links.

✅ Navigation:

Google Maps works well for directions and parking info.

✅ Translation:

Apps like Google Translate can help if you need assistance reading signs or menus.

📝 Key Takeaway:

✅ Noboribetsu welcomes international visitors, with helpful staff and multilingual resources available.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to common questions that international visitors often have about the Noboribetsu Oni Fire Festival.

Q1. What happens if it rains?

✅ A:

Light rain does not cancel the festival.

However, in case of heavy rain, storms, or strong winds, the event may be canceled for safety.

Check the official website and social media on the day of the event for updates.

Q2. Can I re-enter the venue?

✅ A:

No. Once you leave the paid viewing area, re-entry is not permitted.

Make sure you have everything you need before entering (camera, drinks, ear protection).

Q3. Are pets allowed?

✅ A:

Pets are not allowed in the paid viewing area for safety reasons.

However, you may walk pets in the surrounding public spaces (on a leash).

Q4. Are English guides available?

✅ A:

Yes, printed English guides are available at the entrance and tourist information center.

Basic English support is provided by staff at main hotels and the visitor center.

Q5. How early should I arrive?

✅ A:

For the best viewing spots:

Arrive by 6:00 PM for paid areas.
For free areas, arrive by 5:30 PM to secure a good place.

📝 Tip:

✅ Plan ahead, arrive early, and prepare for weather changes to enjoy the event comfortably.

ありがとうございます！それでは、**第9章（英語原稿・まとめ）**をお届けします。

9. Conclusion: Make the Most of Your Visit

The Noboribetsu Oni Fire Festival is more than just a fireworks display—it’s a unique cultural experience combining ancient folklore, dramatic performances, and the stunning natural scenery of Hell Valley.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, you’ll find plenty to enjoy:

✅ Thrilling Fire Performances:

See powerful Oni demons carrying 8-meter tezutsu fireworks.

✅ Cultural Immersion:

Experience traditional Japanese rituals and legends up close.

✅ Perfect Photo Opportunities:

Capture unforgettable moments to share on social media.

✅ Family-Friendly Atmosphere:

With proper preparation, children can safely enjoy the show.

🎯 Quick Checklist Before You Go:

🎟️ Secure your ticket online at 3:00 PM on the event day.
🚍 Plan your transport from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport.
📸 Prepare your camera or smartphone settings.
🎧 Bring ear protection for kids.
⏰ Arrive early to find a good viewing spot.

💡 Final Tip:

The Oni Fire Festival is a celebration of strength, tradition, and community spirit. With a little preparation, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable evening in one of Hokkaido’s most iconic destinations.

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