- Introduction
- Why the Matsusaka Lantern Festival Is One of Japan’s Most Beautiful Winter Events
- Thousands of Lanterns Lighting Up the Winter Sky
- What You Can Experience at the Festival
- Event Information: Dates, Time, and Location
- Tickets: How to Join or Just Watch
- What to Eat: Local Food & Matsusaka Beef
- Nearby Places to Visit After the Festival
- Suggested 1–2 Day Travel Plan
- Tips for Foreign Visitors Visiting in February
- Why You Should Visit the Matsusaka Lantern Festival
- FAQ（公開時にSchema対応推奨）
Introduction
Hello, this is the ShimaSuki editorial department.
On a cold February night in central Japan, thousands of glowing lanterns slowly rise into the sky above a historic castle.
The Matsusaka Lantern Festival is one of Japan’s most atmospheric winter events—combining lantern lights, cultural performances, local food, and community spirit.
Held for two nights only, this festival offers foreign visitors a rare chance to experience a local Japanese winter celebration in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Why the Matsusaka Lantern Festival Is One of Japan’s Most Beautiful Winter Events
Unlike large urban light-up events, the Matsusaka Lantern Festival takes place in the historic Matsusaka Castle Ruins, creating a quiet and emotional atmosphere.
What makes it special:
- Thousands of warm lantern lights against the winter night sky
- A historic Japanese castle park as the backdrop
- A strong sense of local culture rather than mass tourism
It is visually stunning, yet calm—perfect for travelers seeking an authentic seasonal experience.
Thousands of Lanterns Lighting Up the Winter Sky
The highlight of the festival is the sky lantern launch.
More than 1,500 lanterns are released into the night sky, each carrying a handwritten wish. As they slowly float upward, the entire park glows with soft orange light—an unforgettable sight.
Even visitors who do not participate in the launch can enjoy the view from designated observation areas.
What You Can Experience at the Festival
Sky Lantern Experience
Visitors can purchase a ticket to write a wish and release their own lantern. This is a popular activity, and tickets are limited.
Lantern Displays & Illuminations
Lanterns line walking paths throughout Matsusaka Castle Park, turning the area into a magical nighttime landscape.
Live Performances
Local musicians and performers appear on stage during both evenings, adding energy and warmth to the winter night.
Fireworks Finale
Each night concludes with a fireworks display, creating a beautiful contrast between lantern light and winter fireworks.
Event Information: Dates, Time, and Location
Event: Matsusaka Lantern Festival
Dates: February 7 (Saturday) & February 8 (Sunday), 2026
Time: Approximately 15:00 – 21:00
Location: Matsusaka Castle Ruins (Matsusaka Park), Matsusaka City, Mie Prefecture
The venue is about a 15-minute walk from Matsusaka Station (JR & Kintetsu Lines).
Tickets: How to Join or Just Watch
- Festival entry: Free
- Sky lantern participation: Paid ticket (approx. ¥3,500 per lantern)
Tickets for the lantern launch are limited and often sell out, so advance purchase or early arrival is recommended.
What to Eat: Local Food & Matsusaka Beef
Food stalls at the festival focus on local specialties, making it a great opportunity to try regional cuisine.
Highlights include:
- Matsusaka beef dishes (grilled beef, beef sushi)
- Warm street food perfect for winter evenings
- Seasonal snacks and drinks
Eating while enjoying lantern lights is part of the experience.
Nearby Places to Visit After the Festival
Matsusaka Castle Ruins & Park
The festival venue itself is worth exploring during the daytime. Stone walls and elevated viewpoints offer a peaceful contrast to the night event.
Matsusaka Beef Restaurants (Near Matsusaka Station)
Matsusaka is famous worldwide for its premium wagyu beef. Many restaurants near the station offer sukiyaki, teppanyaki, and casual beef dishes.
Ise Grand Shrine (40 minutes by train)
One of Japan’s most sacred Shinto sites. Winter is a quiet, beautiful season to visit.
Okage Yokocho (Ise)
A traditional shopping street near Ise Grand Shrine with local food, souvenirs, and an easy-to-walk layout for foreign visitors.
Suggested 1–2 Day Travel Plan
Day 1
Arrive in Matsusaka → Explore castle ruins → Lantern Festival → Matsusaka beef dinner
Day 2
Train to Ise → Visit Ise Grand Shrine → Lunch at Okage Yokocho → Return or continue to Ise-Shima
Tips for Foreign Visitors Visiting in February
- Dress warmly: nights are cold in February
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking in the park
- Arrive before sunset for the best atmosphere
- Bring a camera or smartphone—this festival is extremely photogenic
Why You Should Visit the Matsusaka Lantern Festival
The Matsusaka Lantern Festival is not just a light event—it is a local winter celebration filled with warmth, tradition, and beauty.
For foreign visitors looking to go beyond famous tourist spots, this festival offers a chance to experience Japan’s winter culture in a memorable and meaningful way.
FAQ（公開時にSchema対応推奨）
Q. Is the Matsusaka Lantern Festival free?
Yes. Viewing the festival and lantern displays is free.
Q. Can foreign visitors join the sky lantern launch?
Yes. Anyone can participate with a ticket.
Purchase tickets here
https://matsusaka-lantern.info/
We also recommend the great value package plan that includes accommodation and tickets.
https://matsusaka-lantern.info/setplan/
Q. How cold is Matsusaka in February?
Evenings are cold, often near freezing, so warm c
