Hokkaido International Balloon Festival in Kamishihoro, Japan

As part of our resources for visitors to Hokkaido, we present this guide to the Hokkaido International Balloon Festival, a unique event held in the summer in Kamishihoro, Hokkaido (about one hour north of Obihiro).

International Balloon Festival in Hokkaido

— Overview of the Hokkaido International Balloon Festival
— When Does the Balloon Festival Take Place?
— Where is the Hokkaido International Balloon Festival Held?
— How Do We Get to the Festival Venue?
— A Brief History of the Hokkaido International Balloon Festival
— Who Organizes the Festival?
— What Makes the Kamishihoro International Balloon Festival Unique in Japan?

Overview of the Hokkaido International Balloon Festival

Event Name: Hokkaido International Balloon Festival (北海道バルーンフェスティバル)
Usual Season: Usually in late summer (weather dependent)
Location: 242 Kamishihoro-shigaisen, Kamishihoro, Kato District, Hokkaido 080-1407, Japan / (上士幌町航空公園)
Event Type: Hot air balloon competition and exhibition
Website: https://hbf.jp/

The Hokkaido International Balloon Festival is Japan’s largest and most well-known hot air balloon event. Held annually in in central Hokkaido (about one hour north of Obihiro). The international festival attracts balloon pilots from Japan and overseas. Thousands of spectators come to enjoy the colorful balloons rising over wide open farmland and river landscapes.

Each year, dozens of hot air balloons launch at sunrise, filling the early morning air with brightly colored balloons. The event combines international balloon competitions with public viewing, night-time balloon illuminations, and local food stalls, making it one of Hokkaido’s signature summer festivals.

When Does the Balloon Festival Take Place?

The exact date of the Hokkaido International Balloon Festival changes from year to year. The event is often held in August.

For example, the the dates for the Hokkaido International Balloon Festival for 2026 are August 7 – 9 (Friday – Sunday). In previous years, the event was held on the weekend of August 1 – 3 (Friday – Sunday). Exact dates are usually scheduled for a weekend, and flight times vary each year depending on weather conditions. Visitors are encouraged to check official announcements in advance.

Balloon flights typically take place early in the morning, around 5 AM (early hours often have more stable wind conditions). To prepare for early flights, the hot air balloons begin set up as early as 3 AM. By 6 AM, most of the balloons have launched.

Where is the Hokkaido International Balloon Festival Held?

The festival is held in the Kamishihoro Air Park, near the Otofuke River, in Kamishihoro (about 40 minutes north of Obihiro, by car). This region is known for agriculture, open landscapes, and clear weather conditions, which are ideal for balloon flight.

While the event is outside Sapporo, it is one of the most popular seasonal events for travelers exploring Hokkaido beyond the major cities.

How Do We Get to the Festival Venue?

By Train:
Visitors can travel from Sapporo Station to Obihiro Station by limited express train, then continue by local train, bus, or taxi to the festival area.

By Car:
Driving is one of the most convenient options, especially for visitors staying in Tokachi or eastern Hokkaido. Temporary parking areas are usually arranged during the event.

A Brief History of the Hokkaido International Balloon Festival

The Hokkaido International Balloon Festival began in 1974 and has grown into Japan’s premier hot air balloon competition. Over the decades, it has played a major role in promoting balloon sports in Japan and showcasing Tokachi as a destination for outdoor events and tourism.

Who Organizes the Festival?

The festival is organized by 北海道バルーンフェスティバル組織委員会 or Hokkaido Balloon Festival Organizing Committee. Support also comes from aviation and sports organizations involved in balloon competition management and safety.

What Makes the Kamishihoro International Balloon Festival Unique in Japan?

Unlike many large-scale events such as the Saga International Balloon Fiesta, the Hokkaido Kamishihoro International Balloon Festival offers a more intimate and hands-on experience. Held in Kamishihoro, a town with over 50 years of ballooning history, visitors can enjoy close-up views of balloon inflation, interact with pilots, and even take part in tethered balloon rides.

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