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February 21, 2026 at 9:00 am
Event date:
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February 28, 2026 at 9:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Ojiya Hot Air Balloon Festival, known locally as Ojiya Fusen Ikki (おぢや風船一揆), has been a beloved winter tradition in Niigata Prefecture for decades. It began as a small local event meant to brighten the cold winter skies and quickly grew into one of Japan’s most unique and visually stunning seasonal festivals.
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Contact Jasumo Now →The festival’s name, “Fusen Ikki,” reflects the excitement and collective spirit of hundreds of hot air balloons rising against the snowy landscape. Over the years, it has evolved into both a competitive event for professional balloonists and a family-friendly celebration filled with local food, entertainment, and cultural charm.
Ojiya’s mountainous backdrop and wintery countryside make it one of the most picturesque locations for hot air ballooning in Japan. The combination of snow, fire, and color paints a truly breathtaking scene that continues to attract visitors from all over the country.
Overview
The Ojiya Hot Air Balloon Festival 2026 is expected to take place in late February 2026, typically over a two-day weekend. The event brings together experienced balloon pilots from Japan and overseas to compete in various challenges, filling the sky with vibrant balloons floating gracefully over the snow-covered fields of Niigata.
The festival features two main sites: the Nishinaka site, where competitive balloon flights take place, and the Hirazawa site, which serves as the main public area featuring balloon rides, local food stalls, and entertainment. As night falls, the event concludes with a spectacular fireworks show, illuminating the balloons for a magical finale that captures the essence of Japanese winter festivals.
Highlights
- Hot air balloon competitions featuring pilots from across Japan and beyond.
- Balloon rides available for visitors, offering a bird’s-eye view of snowy Ojiya.
- Local food stalls serving Niigata specialties and warming winter dishes.
- Nighttime fireworks display lighting up the balloons against the night sky.
- Shuttle buses operating between Ojiya Station and both festival venues for easy access.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- A rare winter balloon festival surrounded by scenic snow-covered landscapes.
- Combines sports, culture, and entertainment in one event.
- Free entry makes it ideal for families and travelers on a budget.
- Offers a chance to experience a hot air balloon ride firsthand.
- Perfect for photographers and festival enthusiasts seeking something unique.
If you’re coming to Japan or already here, and you need any kind of help—from custom tours and experiences to transportation or booking tickets and more—just contact us using the Contact Us page on Jasumo.
Schedule
Tentative Dates: Late February 2026 (The festival is typically held over a two-day weekend in late February.)
Time: Morning until evening, with fireworks displays at night.
Duration: Two days of competitive flights, balloon rides, and live entertainment.
Pricing
Admission: Free entry
Balloon Rides: Paid on-site (subject to weather conditions and availability)
Food & Activities: Individual pricing at stalls and vendor booths.
Location
City: Ojiya, Niigata Prefecture, Japan
Venues: The festival takes place across two main sites — the Nishinaka site, where balloon competitions are held, and the Hirazawa site, featuring balloon rides, local cuisine, and family-friendly attractions.
Address: 〒947-0024 Niigata Prefecture, Ojiya, Funaoka, Unnamed Road, 3 Chome
How to Get There:
From Tokyo, take the Joetsu Shinkansen to Nagaoka Station. Then transfer to the JR Joetsu Line bound for Minakami and get off at Ojiya Station. During the festival, shuttle buses operate between Ojiya Station and both the Nishinaka and Hirazawa sites.
Accommodation Options
Ojiya offers a small but cozy selection of local inns, ryokans, and business hotels, providing comfortable stays close to the festival sites. Visitors can also stay in nearby Nagaoka City, which offers more options and convenient transport access to Ojiya.
Average accommodation costs range between ¥7,000 and ¥15,000 per night, depending on location and amenities. For an authentic experience, try booking a traditional ryokan with local cuisine and onsen facilities.
FAQs
When will the Ojiya Hot Air Balloon Festival 2026 take place?
The festival is scheduled for late February 2026, typically over a weekend. Exact dates will be confirmed closer to the event.
Where is the festival held?
The festival takes place in Ojiya City, Niigata Prefecture, at two main sites: Nishinaka (for competitions) and Hirazawa (for balloon rides and food stalls).
How much is the admission fee?
Entry to the festival is completely free, though balloon rides and some food stalls may have separate costs.
Can visitors take a balloon ride?
Yes! Visitors can purchase balloon ride tickets at the Hirazawa site, but rides are subject to weather conditions and can have long waiting times.
How do I get to Ojiya from Tokyo?
Take the Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagaoka Station, then transfer to the JR Joetsu Line and get off at Ojiya Station. Shuttle buses run between the station and festival venues during the event.
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