Celebrate summer with lights, fireworks near Sasebo Aug. 23-24

A 30-minute drive from Sasebo Naval Base, Emukae Town is known for “Emukae Sento Matsuri,” it’s vibrant summer festival (thousands of lights festival).

Translated to “thousands of lights,” the summer event on Aug. 23 and Aug. 24 draws about 50,000 visitors every year.

A 25-meter, pyramid-like lantern tower comprised of 3.5K lanterns forms the festival’s centerpiece as many food and game booths promise a fun night of entertainment.

During the day, check out the town’s traditional “Mizukakake Jizo Matsuri.” This festival involves pouring water on a wooden Jizo statue enshrined in a mikoshi portable shrine. Children carry the shrine and parade around a route and locals, in turn, spray water at the children, wishing for their health and prosperity.

In the evening, the lantern tower, along with about 7,000 other lanterns hang from the streets, continuing the lively spirit in Emukae.

Stay until the end when the town launches a 2,000-firework display finale to wrap up the festival each night. 
If you’re in Sasebo, you won’t want to miss this event!

Emukae Sentoro Matsuri
Location: 263 Nagasaka, Emukaecho, Sasebo City, Nagasaki Pref. (30-minute drive from Sasebo Naval Base)
Hours: Aug. 23 and 24, 1 – 9:30 p.m. (Fireworks display: 9 p.m. on both days)
Admission: Free
URL: http://sentourou.com/
Tel: 0956-65-2500