Takasago Manto-sai Lantern Festival 2026

Why You Should Visit

For two autumn nights, Takasago's old merchant town glows under thousands of candles, held under the theme "once a year, the stars come down to town." Some 6km of lanes in the historic grid-plan district are lined with candlelight, while Edo- to Showa-era buildings and cultural properties are lit up. Jazz concerts take place at temples and old townhouses, layering music over the lights — a night walk suited to anyone who enjoys historic streetscapes at an unhurried pace.

Essentials

location

The area south of Sanyo Takasago Station (Takasago old town)

period

November 21, 2026 (Sat) - November 22, 2026 (Sun)

Time

17:00〜20:00

cost

Free to view (some venues or programs may charge)

Links

Official Website

Kobe · Gluten-free

Basque cheesecakeBaked with rice flour, no wheat. Whole 12cm, serves 2-3¥4,700 incl. shipping (Japan only)

access

Just south of Takasago Station on the Sanyo Electric Railway. There is no parking near the venue — use public transport or the temporary lots.

There are 2 car parks within a 12-minute walk of The area south of Sanyo Takasago Station (Takasago old town), and 1 public restrooms within 8 minutes. The map shows each with its walking time.

Facility data comes from OpenStreetMap. It does not include opening hours, fees or availability.

NOTE

Light programs (typical lineup)

Street candles: about 6km of lanes through the old town lined with candlelight
Building light-ups: 13 Edo- to Showa-era buildings and cultural properties
Nagomi lights: around 3,000 candles at Takasago Shrine
Water lights: about 30 yachts on the Horikawa canal decorated with LEDs
Yume lights: illuminated play equipment at Deshiokan-mae Park
Musubi lights: a "connection" themed display at the former Kuraku Matsuemon residence

Jazz Gallery

Jazz concerts at four venues: Jurin-ji, Uomachi Club, Zenryu-ji and Horikawa

Other

Special evening opening of the former Kuraku Matsuemon residence
Workshops at Shingido, an Edo-period school
Tea ceremonies, concerts and exhibitions in old townhouses
Food stalls, food trucks and local product sales

* The above reflects past years; the 2026 lineup will be announced on the official site

* Held in light rain, cancelled in stormy weather

FAQ

Is there an admission fee?

Strolling the town and viewing the candles and light-ups is free. Some venues or programs may charge, so check the official site.

Can I come by car?

There is no parking around the venue. The site is right by Takasago Station on the Sanyo line, so public transport is recommended; drivers should use the temporary lots.

Is it held in the rain?

It goes ahead in light rain but is cancelled in stormy weather. Check the official site for same-day updates.

When will the 2026 program details be announced?

The official site states details will be posted as they are decided. Jazz Gallery performers and venue programs are expected closer to the event.

Calendar

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