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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 (near 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?
— Experience a Ride in a Hot Air Balloon
— A Brief History of the Hokkaido International Balloon Festival
— Who Organizes the Festival?
— What Makes This 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
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.

There are even some opportunities for visitors to experience a ride in a hot air balloon (special times and fees may apply).

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 12. 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.

Experience a Ride in a Hot Air Balloon

Visitors to the Tokachi area can enjoy an authentic hot air balloon experience, with flights typically taking place early in the morning when wind conditions are most stable.

A standard “Hot Air Balloon Ride Experience” lasts around 30 to 60 minutes, offering panoramic views of Hokkaido’s wide countryside and sunrise skies.

Price: Around 33,000 yen per person (tax included)
Time: Early morning departures (around 5:00 AM)
Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours total (including preparation and return)

Since flights start very early, staying overnight in Obihiro or nearby areas is highly recommended. Advance booking is also advised, especially during the festival season.

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 Hokkaido Balloon Festival Organizing Committee and regional tourism organizations in cooperation with Tokachi-area municipalities. Support also comes from aviation and sports organizations involved in balloon competition management and safety.

What Makes This Balloon Festival Unique in Japan

Unlike many urban festivals in Japan, balloon festivals take place in spacious, rural settings. The wide Tokachi plains provide ideal flying conditions and unobstructed views, allowing dozens of hot air balloons to launch simultaneously.

Early morning flights, clear summer skies, and the backdrop of mountains and farmland make this festival especially popular with photographers and nature lovers.

Hokkaido International Balloon Festival in Kamishihoro, Japan

International Balloon Festival in Hokkaido

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