Fukuoka is a vibrant city in Japan where tradition and modernity coexist beautifully. Each year, the city hosts numerous festivals and events, but April is particularly special because it's the time when cherry blossoms bloom, and various festivals reflect the season's spirit. If you're planning to visit Fukuoka in April 2025, here’s your ultimate guide to the festival schedule and highlights!
Major Festivals and Events
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Fukuoka Castle Sakura Festival
- Date: March 26, 2025 – April 6, 2025
- Location: Maizuru Park (Fukuoka Castle Ruins)
- Details: Experience the breathtaking sight of about 1,000 cherry blossom trees in full bloom! This festival features light displays, food trucks, and traditional cultural experiences, such as horseback riding and rickshaw rides. There’s so much to enjoy both during the day and at night 🌸.
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Nokonoshima Nanohana (Canola Flower) Festival
- Date: Late March – Early April 2025
- Location: Nokonoshima Island
- Details: This festival is perfect for nature lovers! You’ll get to soak in stunning views of the canola flowers blooming alongside cherry blossoms. It’s only a short 20-minute boat ride from downtown Fukuoka 🚤.
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Jokoji Wisteria Festival
- Date: Mid-April – End of April 2025
- Location: Jokoji (Fukuoka area)
- Details: Witness the incredible beauty of natural monuments as wisteria blossoms illuminate the area. This event offers a splendid opportunity to enjoy spring’s splendor 🌷.
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Higashi Ward Fireworks Festival
- Date: April 26, 2025
- Location: Higashi Ward, Fukuoka
- Details: As one of the highlight events signaling the end of spring in Fukuoka, you can enjoy a dazzling fireworks display that paints the night sky with color 🎆.
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Yanagawa Hina Matsuri Sagemon Meguri
- Date: February 11, 2025 – April 3, 2025
- Location: Yanagawa City
- Details: This traditional Hina Matsuri festival features splendid decorations and canals, allowing you to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and appreciate its beauty ⛩️.
Event Highlights
- Sakura Light-Up: The cherry blossoms at Fukuoka Castle ruins look entirely different when illuminated at night. Make sure to capture some breathtaking photos! There are recommended photo spots throughout the festival 😊.
- Sakura Street Performances: You can enjoy street performances by skilled Japanese performers right in the festival vicinity. It’s always a fun time!
- Food Trucks and Local Cuisine: A variety of food trucks will be available, serving delicious local dishes. Don’t forget to taste the specialties of Fukuoka! 🍜
Tips for Visiting Fukuoka in April
- Cherry blossoms usually bloom beautifully until the beginning of April, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly.
- The festival locations are easily accessible by public transportation. For instance, Maizuru Park is just a 10-minute walk from Ohori Park Station in Fukuoka Subway.
- Events like the Higashi Ward Fireworks Festival are located on the outskirts, so check travel times in advance to avoid last-minute surprises!
April in Fukuoka is a lively month brimming with cherry blossoms and various spring festivals. Take this information into account and plan an unforgettable spring trip to Fukuoka!
