06/07/2026
Summer in Bizen is officially here! 🎆 From fireworks over the sea to cool museum workshops and seasonal drinks, here is your quick guide to what’s happening in July and August !
⚠️ Crucial Transit Info for Visitors:
🚊 By Train: Highly recommended for both fireworks festivals! The venues are just a short walk from JR West stations.
🚘 By Car: If you drive to the Bizen (Katakami) Fireworks on July 11, you must pre-book a parking spot online (via the Akippa platform). Street parking or parking at nearby businesses is strictly prohibited.
👉 Swipe left for dates, locations, and the full breakdown of each event!
Bizen Nishi-Katakami Fireworks Festival (備前花火大会)
📅 When: Saturday, July 11 | 2:00 PM – 8:45 PM (Fireworks start at 8:00 PM)
📍 Where: Katakami Bay (Nishi-Katakami area)
🚶 Getting there: Just a 10-minute walk from JR Nishi-Katakami Station.
What’s happening: 2,500 fireworks launched right over the water, plus 45+ local food stalls and food trucks to enjoy.
Reminder: Driving requires a pre-booked parking ticket online. 🅿️
Hinase Minato Festival Fireworks (ひなせみなとまつり)
📅 When: Thursday, August 13 (Obon Holiday) | Festival starts at 4:30 PM, Fireworks at 8:00 PM
📍 Where: Hinase Port
🚆 Getting there: Incredible access; the venue is right outside JR Hinase Station.
ℹ️ What’s happening: A classic summer port festival. Sometimes you can also ride on a boat before the fireworks start and observe the beautiful landscapes around Hinase.
Bizen City Museum of Art
📅 When: July 4 – September 27
📍 Where: Right near JR Imbe Station
ℹ️ What’s happening: The main summer exhibition is “Tea Cup Merry-Go-Round: 100 Years of Modern Design in European Ceramics”, showcasing the evolution of Western tea vessels.
➡️ Don’t miss: the Bizen MoA is hosting a hands-on Ceramic Tile Workshop on August 1, and traditional monthly tea ceremonies (Tsukigama) on July 12 and August 16 in their 3rd-floor tea room.
Hinase Summer Mocktail Campaign
📅 When: All summer long
📍 Where: Local cafés around the Hinase coastal area
ℹ️ What’s happening: Bizen’s seaside cafés are serving up refreshing, locally inspired non-alcoholic summer mocktails.