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Sawakami Opera in Nachikatsuura: From Kumano

Official event information: Sawakami Opera in Nachikatsuura, From Kumano. The Nachikatsuura Opera Concert Executive Committee has held opera concerts since fiscal 2021 to revitalize the community and promote residents' culture. Through fiscal 2024 they were held in the Katsuura Regional Wholesale Market as the "Sawakami Opera in Kishu Katsuura Fresh Tuna Market Concert," but from fiscal 2025 the venue moved to the Nachikatsuura Town Gymnasium and Cultural Hall, and they are held as "Sawakami Opera in Nachikatsuura." Organizer: Nachikatsuura Opera Concert Executive Committee. Co-sponsors: Nachikatsuura Town Board of Education, Nachikatsuura Town. Support: (General Inc. Assoc.) Nachikatsuura Tourism Organization, Nanki Kuroshio Chamber of Commerce, Kumano Shimbun Co., Ltd., Kinan Shimbun Co., Ltd.

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Kawachi Festival, July 25 and 26

Official event information: Kawachi Festival. The annual festival of Kawachi Shrine is said to depict the triumphant return of the Kumano navy, which went into battle in the Genpei War and won. The highlight of this festival, designated a national Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, is a fleet of three decorated main boats like a picture scroll, a yakata-bune houseboat, kai-denma boats and shishimai denma boats going up the river. Normally the fourth Saturday of July is the eve festival and Sunday the main festival. Dates: Saturday and Sunday, July 25 and 26, 2026. Location: lower Kozagawa. Inquiries: Industry Division, TEL 0735-62-0557; Nanki-Kushimoto Tourism Association Koza, TEL 0735-72-0645

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Hashigui Beach Summer Festa 2026

Official event information: At Hashigui Beach, an event packed with fun programs such as a gyosan sandal toss, a Rocket Cider speed-drinking championship, a treasure hunt, a rock-paper-scissors tournament and running across the sea on mats. Source: Wakayama Prefecture official tourism site official guide (checked October 30, 2026). Published based on the official text.

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The 17th Nachikatsuura Fireworks Festival

Official event information: Nachikatsuura held the first fireworks festival executive committee meeting on Thursday, March 12, Reiwa 8 (2026), and decided to hold the "17th Nachikatsuura Fireworks Festival." [Name] 17th Nachikatsuura Fireworks Festival [Date and time (planned)] Tuesday, August 11, Reiwa 8 (2026), from 20:15 [Backup dates] Wednesday, August 12, Saturday, August 15, Sunday, August 16 [Venue] Blue Beach Nachi (launch site: Nachi Fishing Port) [Overview] A fireworks festival handmade by and for the townspeople, held to pray for the departed. Source: Nachikatsuura Town official guide (checked October 30, 2026). Published based on the official text.

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The 19th Kushimoto Festival

Official event information: [Overview] In Kushimoto, Wakayama, the southernmost town on Honshu, the 19th Kushimoto Festival, a regular summer event that enjoys the sea and the town as one, will be held. With a wide range of content, including the Beach Summer Festa with beach activities, the Kushimoto-bushi group dance where residents dance through town together, a fireworks display lighting the night sky, an indoor bingo tournament and Summer Band Live, and a patrol boat experience cruise, there is something for everyone from adults to children all day. ■ Name: 19th Kushimoto Festival ■ Dates: Sunday, July 26, 2026, 10:00–15:00; Saturday, August 1, 2026, 18:15–21:00; Sunday, August 2, 2026, 13:00–17:00 * Related events 10:00–15:00...

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[Postponed] Honeybee Symposium in Kumano

Organizer's official postponement notice: The "Honeybee Symposium Kumano" scheduled for Saturday, June 27, Reiwa 8 (2026) has been postponed as below, after considering the weather and prioritizing safety. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience to those who planned to attend and everyone involved. New date: ...

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Reiwa 8 Annual Festival: Nachi no Ogi Matsuri (Nachi Fire Festival)

Official event information: Kumano Nachi Taisha (1 Nachisan, Nachikatsuura-cho, Higashimuro-gun, Wakayama), a component of the World Heritage "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range," will hold its annual festival "Nachi no Ogi Matsuri" at Hirou Shrine (Nachi Falls) on Tuesday, July 14, Reiwa 8 (2026). ■ About the Kumano Nachi Taisha annual festival "Nachi no Ogi Matsuri": Twelve deities are said to have descended on "Nachi Falls" in ancient times, and in 317 (year 5 of Emperor Nintoku) they were enshrined at Kumano Nachi Taisha midway up Mt. Nachi. The foot of the falls became Hirou Shrine, a separate shrine with the falls as its object of worship, and it has drawn deep faith to this day. The sacred rite in which these twelve deities return once a year to Hirou Shrine at the foot of the falls is the Nachi no Ogi Matsuri...

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Honeybee Symposium in Kumano: event information

Original event information (scheduled June 27, 2026): This event has been postponed. See the organizer's postponement notice here. The following is the content of the original flyer. A symposium to learn about the beekeeping culture handed down in the Kumano region and the relationship between Japanese honeybees and the forest, and to think about beekeeping and the natural environment as regional resources. From the perspectives of history, science and the community, we think about a future "life with honeybees." Date and time (original plan): Saturday, June 27, 2026, 13:00–17:00 (doors 12:00). Venue: Kushimoto Town Cultural Center (2427 Kushimoto, Kushimoto, Wakayama). Capacity: 200. Fee: free. Advance registration recommended; walk-ins welcome. Organizer: Honeybee Symposium...

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The 20th Kozagawa Clean-Up Operation

A popular event that protects the beloved clear stream Kozagawa River while paddling down it by canoe: the "20th Kozagawa Clean-Up Operation." A special day unique to the Kozagawa, where you can take part in environmental conservation while enjoying the great outdoors up close. This event draws many participants every year and is also recommended for beginners and families. Come experience the comfort of nature, the fun of paddling down the river and the joy of passing the community's precious landscape on to the future. Event overview. Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026. Participants: up to 100 (limited capacity). Fee: Adults 2,000 yen / Elementary school students and younger 1,500 yen. Booking deadline: Monday, May 25, 2026. Meeting...

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The YouTube video of the Kushimoto Kairos Rocket Exercise has been released!

From Kushimoto, drawing attention as a rocket town, a fun-to-watch, fun-to-do "Kushimoto Kairos Rocket Exercise" YouTube video has been released. Japan's first private rocket launch site "Spaceport Kii" and the Kairos rocket launches have spurred Kushimoto to build a town where space feels closer. This exercise was created so that everyone, from children to adults, can enjoy the unique charm of Kushimoto. As you move along with the video, rockets will feel much closer. Enjoy this energetic rocket exercise from Kushimoto with your family and friends. About the Kushimoto Kairos Rocket Exercise: an exercise created in Kushimoto, Wakayama...

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[On sale Mar 25 (Wed) at 12:00] Urgent! Third Spaceport Kii launch site tour, the "Special Spring Tour"

USP Japan Inc., with the support of Space One Co., Ltd., will hold a Spaceport Kii Launch Site Special Tour offered by a local taxi company. This urgent special tour lets you feel the "site of the challenge" up close at the launch site just after the Kairos No. 3 launch, with the lingering excitement of March 5, and includes expert guide commentary and a visit to the Kushimoto Space Contact Hall Sora-Miru. ● Tour overview: Organizer: Kushimoto Taxi Co., Ltd. Tour: day trip. Product name: Spaceport Kii Launch Site Tour [day trip], a limited-time Spaceport Kii Kairos launch site tour plan. Dates: ① Tuesday, March 31, 2026 ② Sunday, April 5, 2026 * Departure and arrival areas differ by date...

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Kushimoto Rocket Exercise Completion Showcase Event held! Featuring Hiromichi Sato and Rie Tanaka

A new exercise born in Kushimoto is about to be unveiled. Saturday, April 4, 2026, at the Kushimoto Town Cultural Center, the "Kushimoto Kairos Rocket Exercise Completion Showcase Event." From Kushimoto, drawing attention for its Kairos rocket launches, an original exercise has been created that everyone from children to adults can enjoy together. On the day, in addition to the showcase of the exercise, a special program will welcome Hiromichi Sato and Rie Tanaka. Event overview: Date and time: Saturday, April 4, 2026, 14:00-15:30 (reception opens 13:30). Venue: Kushimoto Town Cultural Center (2427 Kushimoto, Kushimoto-cho, Higashimuro-gun, Wakay...

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Wakayama, Kushimoto | Traffic restrictions during the Kairos Rocket No. 3 launch

With the launch of "Kairos Rocket No. 3" scheduled for February 25, 2026, traffic restrictions will be in effect in the surrounding area. If you plan to visit, be sure to check beforehand. 1. About the traffic restrictions: On launch day, an area about 5 km around Spaceport Kii will be a no-parking, no-stopping zone. In addition, roads around the viewing area may be closed at certain times. These measures are for safety, so please follow the instructions of on-site guards and police. 2. No park-and-ride: park-and-ride will not be implemented for this launch...

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Nachi Fishing Port Rocket Viewing Seafood Marche

At Nachi Fishing Port, the sea gateway of Nachikatsuura, a special event where you can enjoy the feel of a rocket launch up close: the "Rocket Viewing Seafood Marche" will be held. On the day, besides viewing the rocket launch, a marche opens at 9:00 with fresh seafood and local specialties on display. A gourmet corner where you can taste freshly caught seafood and a hands-on corner where you can touch sea creatures, and more: plenty of offerings for adults and children alike. The venue is Nachi Fishing Port and admission is free. Parking is also free for the first 100 cars. Where Nachikatsuura's "sea" meets "rockets": enjoy a day you can only experience here...

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[Volunteers wanted] Beach cleanup ahead of the Kairos No. 3 launch

A volunteer event to clean the shore of Tahara Beach, the viewing venue, ahead of the launch of the rocket "Kairos No. 3." Together with local residents and supporters, the aim is to welcome the rocket's send-off on a clean beach. * Canceled in case of rain. Co-sponsors: Rocket Support Team, Kushimoto Koza High School CGS Club, Kushimoto Lions Club. Cooperation: Kashiwagi Shoten Co., Ltd. Support: Kushimoto Town (planned). Please check the official website for the latest information.

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[Volunteers wanted] Cleanup volunteers: Kairos rocket official viewing site (Urakami)

Support starts on site. Cleanup volunteers who support the rocket that will fly to the future. Volunteer cleanup activities to support the Kairos rocket's challenge as a whole community and to keep the official viewing site safe and comfortable. We will mow grass and do simple cleaning on and around the grounds, and on the day also carry out work such as setting up support banners. * Minors may take part with a guardian. Bring work gloves, a hat, drinks and clothing that's easy to move in. Start: Saturday, February 14, 2026, 10:00 * Meeting time 10:00. End: same day (end time not specified / usually expected to take a few hours). * Backup date in case of bad weather: Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Venue: Kairos Rocket Official Viewing Site (former Urakami Elementary School). Address: Urakami, Nachikatsuura-cho, Wakayama. Lat...

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Omoshiro Land Craft Experience Festa 2026 at Shionomisaki Youth House

A hands-on event for parents and children held at Shionomisaki Youth House. The program lasts all day, with more than 24 types of craft experiences, pizza making, art exhibitions, a flea market and food trucks. There will also be a monkey performance and a disaster prevention experience on a shaking vehicle, so you can learn and play at the same time. * Held rain or shine (program content may change). Please check the official social media for the latest information. Organizer: Shionomisaki Omoshiro Land Experiential Learning Promotion Council (NPO). Co-sponsors: Shionomisaki Youth House, Kushimoto Town Board of Education

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The Over-the-Top Tuna Fest: Where Mountains and Sea Connect

"The Over-the-Top Tuna Fest: Where Mountains and Sea Connect" is an event held in Nachikatsuura, Wakayama. Centered on the local resource, tuna, it is a touring festival where you walk, eat and experience your way through the town, enjoying the charms of the mountains and sea. Main events during the period: Tuna gacha, 1,000 yen per try, with a chance to win a whole tuna or accommodation vouchers. Over-the-Top Tuna coupons, a great-value coupon program for tourists. Stamp rally, a touring event exploring the town's mountain and sea areas. Opening event (January 31). Finale event (February 7). * Content and dates may change. Please check the official...

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Southernmost Point of Honshu Fire Festival

A traditional winter event representing Kushimoto, held at Cape Shionomisaki, the southernmost point of Honshu: the "Southernmost Point of Honshu Fire Festival." At the venue, along with local product sales and food trucks, a variety of cultural programs will be presented, including the Kushimoto-bushi and Shionomisaki-bushi dances and Turkish dance. From the evening, after the ceremony, the fire-arrow ceremony by the Kushimoto Koza High School kyudo club, staged fireworks and the grass burning begin all at once... Southernmost Point of Honshu Fire Festival | Saturday, January 17, 2026 * In case of rain or strong wind: postponed to Saturday, January 24. Time / Program 13:00-17:0...

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The 1st Southernmost Point of Honshu Tyrannosaurus Race

A participatory event held for the first time at the venue of the Southernmost Point of Honshu's winter tradition, the Fire Festival: the "Tyrannosaurus Race." Runners wear tyrannosaurus costumes and race in three divisions: adult male, adult female and juvenile. There is plenty to enjoy even if you only watch. Spend a memorable day with family and friends in the unique setting of Cape Shionomisaki. The 1st Southernmost Point of Honshu Tyrannosaurus Race timetable: 11:30- Reception opens 12:00- Radio calisthenics 12:10- Adult male division heats 12:20- Adult female division heats 12:30- Juvenile division heats 12:45-13:45 Break 13:45- Adult male division final...

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Kushimoto Illumination 2025

"Kushimoto Illumination 2025" lights up winter in Kushimoto. At Hashigui Beach, along with magical lighting, there are many family-friendly events: a lighting ceremony, a children's illumination display, food stalls by the Nanki Morning Market and a present giveaway by Hitomi Santa. An Instagram photo contest is also held at the same time, letting you share Kushimoto's charms through photos. Lighting event: Saturday, December 13, 2025. Program / Time: Children's illumination (PET bottle light display) 17:00–21:00; Nanki Morning Market 16:00–19:00; Hitomi Santa (presents for children) 16:00–18:...

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[On sale Nov 28 (Fri) at 16:00] Second special Spaceport Kii launch site tour confirmed!

USP Japan Inc., with the support of Space One Co., Ltd. and in cooperation with Kushimoto, Nachikatsuura, travel agencies and accommodation providers, will hold the Spaceport Kii Launch Site Special Tour, Second Edition. Each company offers tours on various courses, including a visit to Spaceport Kii, where Kairos No. 3 is eagerly awaited, and a trip around attractive sightseeing spots in Wakayama. (This tour is carried out by USP Japan Inc., which has a comprehensive partnership agreement on regional development with Kushimoto and Nachikatsuura, as part of the Japan Tourism Agency's...

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[Aug 11 (Mon, holiday)] The 16th Nachikatsuura Fireworks Festival

On Monday, August 11, 2025 (a holiday), the "16th Nachikatsuura Fireworks Festival" will be held at Blue Beach Nachi in Nachikatsuura, Wakayama. Program: 19:55 Opening, greeting by the festival chair / Nachikatsuura Town mayor Junichiro Hori. 20:00–20:15 [Chapter 1: Opening drone show] A first for the Kii region! Drones finally appear at a fireworks festival. This year's festival opens with a duet of 300 drones and fireworks. Making a pilgrimage along the Kumano Kodo with you, many of Nachikatsuura's famous sights and specialties appear. Then start the fireworks together with a countdown themed on the Kairos rocket! * Only if held on August 11 or 12 (canceled for later postponements)...

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[Aug 2 (Sat)] The 18th Kushimoto Festival

The "18th Kushimoto Festival" will be held in Kushimoto, Wakayama on Saturday, August 2, 2025. Kushimoto Festival schedule for Saturday, August 2 * Postponed to Sunday, August 3 in case of rain. Event / Time / Place: Kushimoto-bushi group dance (street dance) 18:15–19:30, behind Lawson Kushimoto to Kushimoto Fishing Port. Fireworks festival 19:45–21:00, Kushimoto Fishing Port. * If drones are detected in flight, the fireworks festival may be canceled, so please refrain. Parking is limited, so please use public transport. Events on Sunday, August 3: Bingo tournament 13:30– (doors 12:30), Kushimoto Town Gymnasium...

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[Jul 26 (Sat) and 27 (Sun)] Kawachi Festival 2025

The "Kawachi Festival" will be held in Kushimoto and Kozagawa, Wakayama on Saturday and Sunday, July 26 and 27, 2025. Saturday, July 26, eve festival: Event / Place / Time: Boat procession, Kozagawa river mouth, 11:30–; Boat entry ceremony, Kozagawa river mouth, 14:00–; Kai-denma boat battle, Kozagawa river mouth, 16:00–; Overnight stay of the boats, Kawachi-sama, 19:30– ... Sunday, July 27, main festival: Event / Place / Time: Boat procession, Kozagawa river mouth, 07:30–; Ceremony, Kawachi-sama, 10:00–; Boat flower circling, Kawachi-sama, 12:30–; Kai-denma boat battle, Kawachi-sama, 13:00–; Boat river circling, Kozagawa river mouth, 20:00–; Fireworks, Kozagawa river mouth, 20:00– Kozagawa map

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[Jul 26 (Sat)] Sora-Miru Festa Summer Festival

The hugely popular "Sora-Miru Festa" held in June will be held again in July in response to your requests! Food trucks, a festival corner and popular local shops all gather at Sora-Miru! Start your summer vacation with an event the whole family and friends can enjoy! Date and time: Saturday, July 26, 2025, 15:00–18:00. Venue: Space Contact Hall Sora-Miru, 359 Nishimuko, Kushimoto-cho, Higashimuro-gun, Wakayama (former Koza Branch Office). Sora-Miru presents: astronaut selection exam experience, white puzzle challenge, origami class and paper-airplane contest. Festival and activity corner: goldfish (medaka) scooping, yo-yo fishing, shooting game, character...

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[Jul 27 (Sun)] Hashigui Beach Summer Festa 2025 to be held!

On Sunday, July 27, "Hashigui Beach Summer Festa!! 2025" will be held at Hashigui Beach in Wakayama. Date and time: Sunday, July 27, 10:00–15:00. Place: Hashigui Beach, Kushimoto, Wakayama. [Event details] Gyosan sandal toss contest: whoever throws their sandal the farthest wins. * Throws outside the designated line are invalid. Rocket Cider speed-drinking and snack speed-eating contest: speed-drinking Kushimoto's famous Rocket Cider and speed-eating snacks. Treasure hunt: search for plates buried in the sand and exchange them for prizes. Mat running: run across mats floating on the water. Those who finish receive a finisher's award...

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[Jun 15 (Sun)] Sora-Miru Festa to be held!

The "Sora-Miru Festa" will be held at the Space Contact Hall Sora-Miru in Kushimoto, Wakayama, on Sunday, June 15, 2025, 10:00–14:00! Fun workshop: "The power of air and the principle of rockets" (free to join): put a satellite into orbit! Why do rockets fly? Behold, the air cannon! Will it rise?! A hot-air balloon with a hair dryer. Film-case rocket launch experience (100 yen to join), free for those who toured the Space Contact Hall Sora-Miru. Fun stalls too! Authentic tapioca drinks, rice burgers and fried chicken, character goods sales, character lottery, medaka scooping, flower lettering, shooting game (100 yen...

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The Space Brothers Official Store opens at the "Space Contact Hall Sora-Miru" in Kushimoto, Wakayama!

The Space Contact Hall Sora-Miru, a space and rocket hands-on facility, opened in Kushimoto, Wakayama on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. The attached museum shop sells original space, rocket and Wakayama goods you can only find here! Space Contact Hall Sora-Miru original goods, Wakayama original souvenirs, the Official Store for the hugely popular "Space Brothers," a collaboration with the region, "Uchu Nanchara Kotetsu-kun" goods, JAXA-certified space food, other space and rocket goods and more. Our recommendation is the "Space Brothers Official Store"! You can meet many official products of the hugely popular manga "Space Brothers" in Kushimoto! From Apollo plush toys and moon tote bags...

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Space Contact Hall Sora-Miru opens!

The Space Contact Hall Sora-Miru opened in Kushimoto, Wakayama on Tuesday, April 1! What is the Space Contact Hall Sora-Miru? It is a hub facility where everyone looks up at the sky (space) to watch over and cheer on Kairos rocket launches. Under the concept "bring space closer," it is a hands-on facility where you can feel close to and learn about space and rockets, sharing their appeal with many people. 1F: Rocket Museum, a museum where you can enjoy and learn about the Wakayama rocket from many angles. Starry Sky Library, a library with a wealth of space and rocket books, featuring a rocket nose fairing and a starry-sky ceiling. Museum...

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[Feb 3 (Mon) to Jun 10 (Tue)] Mystic Walk 2025

The Mystic Walk is a walking tour available only from February to June. * Meals are not included. Dates: February 3 (Mon) to June 10 (Tue), 2025. * It is planned to run until before the rainy season, but if the rainy season arrives early and high water is expected, it is dangerous, so it may end earlier than the above period. Price <Guide fee>: groups of up to 10 people. 1 to 5 people: guide fee 9,000 yen. 6 to 10 people: guide fee 12,000 yen. * Groups of 11 or more are treated as 2 or more groups. * One guide accompanies each group. <Formal worship offering> A formal worship at Kumano Nachi Taisha is required to hold the Mystic Walk...

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[Jan 26 (Sun) to Feb 1 (Sat)] Raw Tuna Fest 2025

The "Raw Tuna Fest," whose first edition was held last year, will be held again this year! With the theme of enjoying raw tuna from Kishu Katsuura, it is held with the following four pillars: Nachikatsu coupons, Nachikatsu stamp rally, Nachikatsu bar hopping, and a finale event. Several daily events are also planned! For new information and details, please check the dedicated website. [Raw Tuna Fest website] Date / Event / Place: January 26 (Sun) to February 1 (Sat), Raw Tuna Fest 2025, shops in Nachikatsuura. January 26 (Sun) 10:00– Opening event [free raw tuna sashimi] * So that many people can enjoy it...

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[On sale Jan 17 (Fri) at 13:00] First special Spaceport Kii launch site tour!

USP Japan Inc. (Kushimoto, Wakayama; Representative: Ken'ichi Niitsu), in cooperation with Kushimoto and Nachikatsuura and with the support of Space One Co., Ltd., will hold the first Spaceport Kii Launch Site Special Tour. The first special tour for general guests, combined with special places, people and experiences unique to the region, will be sold through travel agencies. (This tour is a project selected under the Japan Tourism Agency's inbound consumption program.) It is the first tour open to the general public to visit Spaceport Kii, still lingering with the excitement of the December Kairos launch, with expert guide commentary, a pre-opening visit to the Kushimoto Space Contact Hall Sora-Miru, model rocket building and launch...

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[Jan 18 (Sat)] Southernmost Point of Honshu Fire Festival

The "Southernmost Point of Honshu Fire Festival" will be held on the Bouro-no-Shiba lawn at Cape Shionomisaki in Kushimoto, Wakayama, on Saturday, January 18, 2025. * Postponed to Saturday, January 25 in case of rain or strong wind. Time / Event: 13:00–17:00 local product sales; model rocket launch experience (first 15 people, for elementary and junior high students); 16:30– serving of Shorasan nabe; performances (Kushimoto-bushi Preservation Society / Shionomisaki-bushi Preservation Society / Kushimoto Turkish Culture Association); 17:00– sweet potato mochi sales; 17:15– ceremony and greetings; 17:20– mochi throwing; 17:30–18:30 (scheduled end): fire-arrow ceremony (Kushimoto Koza High School kyudo club), fireworks, grass lighting

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Space Festival 2024 held!

"Space Festival 2024" will be held in Kushimoto, Wakayama on Saturday, November 30 and Sunday, December 1. Place: Space Contact Hall Sora-Miru (former Koza Branch Office of Kushimoto Town Hall). Exciting workshops. Date / Event / Details: Saturday, November 30, 9:00– Shibuki performance, SHIBUKI art: make a space-art Shibuki piece! 10:30– Water rocket building; 13:30– water rocket launch. Water rocket building and launch experience. Instructor: Uchu Niisans. Build and launch a water rocket with the Uchu Niisans! Sunday, December 1, 10:30– How to make space food: a must for businesses! What new business can we learn from space food development?

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[Now accepting bookings!] A special experience touring space and sacred Kumano: Kairos rocket launch viewing tour

In the "Kairos Rocket Launch Viewing Tour," planned by USP Japan Inc. and Koza MORI Co., Ltd., a travel agency in Honshu's southernmost area, you can experience a rare rocket launch viewing and unique local cultural experiences in Kushimoto, Nachikatsuura and Kozagawa in Wakayama. Watch the moment of launch up close from a dedicated viewing seat, receive a blessing at a World Heritage temple, and enjoy a special dinner and video party at the scenic Ichimaiiwa rock, in a luxurious, extraordinary program. (This tour is a project selected under the Japan Tourism Agency's inbound consumption program.) Details of the tour here. Tour dates: Dec 13 (Fri) to 15 (Sun), 2024

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3rd Rocket Souvenir Exhibition and Business Meeting held!

Ahead of the launch of Kairos Rocket No. 2, the "3rd Rocket Souvenir Exhibition and Business Meeting," displaying rocket products, will be held in Nachikatsuura and Kushimoto, Wakayama. Nachikatsuura venue. Date: October 28 (Mon). Time: 11:00–16:00. Place: Nachikatsuura Town Gymnasium and Cultural Hall, 2F large meeting room. Rocket Utilization Seminars: [For businesses] Use it and liven things up! Morning session 11:00–11:30 / afternoon session 13:30–14:00. Speaker: Shinji Suzuki (USP Japan, Chief Producer, License Advisor). A product development specialist explains developing original souvenirs and menus using the rocket logo and tips for hosting tourists...

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Rainbow Festa Nachikatsuura 2024 held!

To rediscover the "differences" close to us, notice new possibilities and build a better future, "Rainbow Festa Nachikatsuura 2024" will be held as a festival celebrating the diversity of all people. Theme: Diversity is possibility. Concept: keep thinking about diversity through LGBTQ. What is "diversity"? Why not think together about "diversity," which changes with the times and places? Everyone is welcome to join. Date: Sunday, November 10, 2024 * Canceled in bad weather. Time: 11:00–16:00 (doors open 10:30). Place: Blue Beach Nachi, Nachikatsuura, Wakayama

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Flying cars land in Wakayama for the first time!!

We will hold events including a demonstration flight of next-generation air mobility (flying cars). Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024. Place: Bouro-no-Shiba lawn at Cape Shionomisaki (2706-26 Shionomisaki, Kushimoto, Higashimuro-gun); Nanki-Kumano Geopark Center (2838-3 Shionomisaki, Kushimoto, Higashimuro-gun). Admission: free. MC: Ruka Yamamoto (former AKB48, from Kushimoto). ◆ Events at Bouro-no-Shiba: 11:00–11:30 demonstration flight * Postponed to Sunday, September 22 in bad weather; 12:00–14:00 on-the-ground ride experience; 12:00–13:00 drone experience. ◆ Events at the Nanki-Kumano Geopark: 13:30–15:30 high school presentation "What do high school students think flying cars can be used for?!"; VR experience...

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CanSat Koshien 2024 Wakayama Regional Tournament

The "CanSat Koshien 2024 Wakayama Regional Tournament" will be held on September 7 and 8, 2024. [What is CanSat Koshien?] High school students build original model rockets and CanSats. They launch the CanSat with the model rocket and compete in technical skill, creativity and "coolness" through the process of release, descent and landing in the sky. The Wakayama Regional Tournament is one of only six regional tournaments nationwide. Teams from inside and outside the prefecture compete aiming for the national tournament. [Date and place] Saturday, September 7: 13:00 opening ceremony, 13:30 launch competition, Bouro-no-Shiba at Cape Shionomisaki. Sunday, September 8: 9:30 post-event presentation judging, Kushimoto Town Hall former Koza Branch Office, 3F 8K Theater Room. * Free to watch...

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Space Symposium in Kushimoto: Rockets Are Hard, and on to the Next Stage

In Kushimoto, Wakayama, where a rocket was launched from Japan's first private rocket launch site, the sixth "Space Symposium in Kushimoto" will be held this year. This year's theme is "Rockets Are Hard, and on to the Next Stage." With the cooperation of students of Wakayama Prefectural Kushimoto Koza High School, which this year launched the nation's first "Space Exploration Course" at a public high school, lectures and a panel discussion by leading figures in Japan's space community will be held. [Date and time] August 25, 2024, 13:00–15:30. [Venue] YouTube online streaming

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[Postponed] The 15th Nachikatsuura Fireworks Festival

Following the Nankai Trough Earthquake Extra Information (Megaquake Advisory) announced on August 8, the Nachikatsuura Fireworks Festival scheduled for Sunday, August 11 has been postponed to Sunday, August 18. * Backup date: Monday, August 19

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The 15th Nachikatsuura Fireworks Festival to be held

Following the announcement of the Nankai Trough Earthquake Extra Information, the Nachikatsuura Fireworks Festival scheduled for Sunday, August 11 (a holiday) has been called off. If it is held on the backup date of Sunday, August 18, depending on the situation, we will announce it again. We ask for your understanding and cooperation. ---------- The annual Nachikatsuura Fireworks Festival reaches its 15th edition. Over 7,000 fireworks color the sky, depicting the mystical scenes of Kumano with its timeless history and fishermen chasing tuna on the open sea. The venue, Blue Beach Nachi, is a few minutes' walk from JR Nachi Station and easy to reach by public transport...

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Rocket postcards now on sale!

Original rocket postcards are now on sale in the rocket towns of Kushimoto and Nachikatsuura. They are also available at "Wakayama Kishu-kan" in Yurakucho, Tokyo. A dream collaboration between the hugely popular manga "Space Brothers" and Kushimoto! Mutta and Hibito striding in front of Hashigui-iwa, Kushimoto's pride. You can't even buy it at anime shops! A special card exclusive to the rocket town, 220 yen each. Also, a fully original rocket postcard set (6 cards) for Kushimoto and Nachikatsuura only is 1,300 yen per set. Great as a souvenir or room decoration! Now on sale to great acclaim. Wishing for success at the next launch, please pick one up!

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The 17th Kushimoto Festival Fireworks

Fireworks launched from Kushimoto Port in Kushimoto, Wakayama, the southernmost point of Honshu. The launch site and spectator seats are close, so the sense of presence is superb, as if the fireworks burst overhead. The Kushimoto-bushi dance held before the main fireworks is also worth seeing, performed on the road to the venue. The beautiful fireworks lighting the night sky and sea are worth a look. Fireworks from Kii-Oshima across the sea are also a popular photo spot. Fireworks: about 4,000. Parking: available. Access: 10 minutes on foot from JR Kushimoto Station; 35 minutes by car from Susami IC. Saturday, August 3, 2024: Kushimoto-bushi group dance [Time] 18:15–19:30 [Place] behind Lawson Kushimoto to Kushimoto Fishing Port * Postponed to Sunday, August 4 in case of rain. Fireworks

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Kawachi Festival

The Kawachi Festival is a traditional festival carried out by five districts along the Kozagawa River (Koza, Furuta, Takaike-shimobe, Utsuki and Tsukinose). The Koza district at the river mouth has formed a community centered on fishing, while the other districts in the mountains center on forestry and farming. Once a year, these areas with different characters gather together at Kawachi Shrine (Kawachi-sama) and each holds the ritual in its own way, a rarely seen format of this "Japan Heritage" festival.

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The 16th Kushimoto Festival Fireworks

Fireworks launched from Kushimoto Port in Kushimoto, Wakayama, the southernmost point of Honshu. The launch site and spectator seats are close, so the sense of presence is superb, as if the fireworks burst overhead. The Kushimoto-bushi dance held before the main fireworks is also worth seeing, performed on the road to the venue. The beautiful fireworks lighting the night sky and sea are worth a look. Fireworks from Kii-Oshima across the sea are also a popular photo spot. Fireworks: about 4,000. Parking: available. Access: 10 minutes on foot from JR Kushimoto Station; 35 minutes by car from Susami IC.

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Hashigui-iwa

Heading from Kushimoto toward Oshima, more than 40 large and small rock pillars rise from the sea in a row about 850 m long, designated a national natural monument. Showing different faces by season, weather, time of day and tide, Hashigui-iwa is, along with Cape Shionomisaki, one of Kushimoto's most popular spots. It was selected as one of Japan's 100 Strange Rock Formations+! When the tide is out you can walk up to the rocks! The Hashigui-iwa illumination held around November each year was also selected as a Japan Night View Heritage site. It is about a 20 to 25-minute walk from JR Kushimoto Station, or about 3 minutes by community bus. At the roadside station "Kushimoto Hashigui-iwa" right in front of Hashigui-iwa, besides souvenirs, soft serve made with ponkan is sold, so when you visit Kushimoto, don't miss "Hashigui-iwa"...

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Heian costume experience

In the late Heian period, when Kumano faith was at its height, so many pilgrims visited the Kumano approach that they formed long lines. This sight was called the "Ant's Pilgrimage to Kumano," and people in elegant Heian costumes are said to have lined the Kumano Kodo in a procession. In this experience tour, at the Daimon-zaka Chaya teahouse you put on a Heian costume recreating how they looked then and stroll the Kumano Kodo. A slightly unusual, extraordinary experience you can only enjoy as a traveler in the real place. Visit the sacred Mt. Nachi dressed like the pilgrims of old and spend a richly flavored time. Experience hours: 9:00–16:00 (last reception 15:00). Reservations are given priority. Price: up to 2 hours: 3,000 yen (tax included); 2 to...

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Wakayama, Kushimoto | Special viewing of the Kairos Rocket No. 3 launch

Kushimoto, at the southern tip of Wakayama's Kii Peninsula, is in fact one of the places where new space development is underway in Japan. On February 25, 2026, the small private rocket "Kairos Rocket No. 3" is scheduled to launch here. This viewing experience lets you feel that moment up close in a special viewing area about 2 km from the launch site. Why not spend such a day, a rare Japanese scene you can encounter on a trip? In addition, ticket-only buyers and every tour participant will receive 1,000 yen of the local coupon "Kii PAY"! Please use it at local member shops (restaurants and stores). ● What is the special viewing seat? ...

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