In Japan, summer is a magical time: in the evening, all the cities fill with lanterns and people in yukata (colourful summer kimono) and wooden sandals. Everyone heads to the river or the sea to watch the wonderful firework displays, organised to commemorate ancestors.

Before the show, everyone enjoys buying treats, such as takoyaki (cooked batter with octopus filling), various sweets, chocolate bananas, icing sugar, and much more.

In Izu-Shuzenji and Izu-Nagaoka on 1-2-3 August there are three very popular summer festivals each year that we recommend you attend to enjoy the true atmosphere of traditional Japanese festivals.

Program:

Thu. August 1^st: Kinyanne Ohito Summer Festival (close to Kano River Ohito bridge)

Fri. August 2^nd: Shuzenji Fireworks Summer Festival (close to Shuzenji station terminal)

Sat. August 3^rd: Izu-Nagaoka Kano River Fireworks Festival (close to Kano River Chitose bridge)

Ideal day:

8 a.m. – 4 p.m. free ride on the Izu Peninsula

16.30 shower and rest

18.00 put on a yukata and visit the festival

21.00 return to the hotel

Where to stay:

Kona Stay

Japanese-style spa hotel suitable for cyclists (10-minute walk from Chitose Bridge)

Book here: konastay.jp