Running since 1965, the Nishi Ward Insect Sound Gathering is a local tradition where visitors can listen to the chirping of bell crickets while enjoying elements of Japanese culture such as an outdoor tea ceremony and koto and shakuhachi performances. On the day of the event, handmade paper lanterns and lantern displays crafted by local children light up the venue, creating a space where people of all generations can share in Japanese sentiment and culture. This year's edition also features a special performance by Hitomiza Otome Bunraku and a "GO GREEN Sticker Rally" that encourages environmentally friendly action. Visitors can look forward to a special evening woven together by lantern light, insect song, and traditional performing arts.
Event Overview
- Date: Saturday, August 22, 2026, 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM (cancelled in the event of rain)
- Venue: Kamon-yama Park (57 Momijigaoka, Nishi Ward, Yokohama)
- Program:
- Lighting of large and small paper lanterns
- Outdoor tea ceremony, koto and shakuhachi performances
- Food stalls
- Bell cricket sales
- And more
Paper lanterns at the Insect Sound Gathering
Otome Bunraku Special Performance
Hitomiza Otome Bunraku will give a special performance at the event. Alongside the performance itself, there will be an easy-to-follow explanation of how the puppets are operated and a talk session, making it enjoyable for visitors of any background. No advance registration is required, and admission is free for all.
- Start time: 7:15 PM
- Program: "Ninin Sanbaso"
- Performers: Hitomiza Otome Bunraku
Otome Bunraku
GO GREEN Sticker Rally
As part of the "Yokohama GO GREEN Challenge," a sticker rally will take visitors around several booths at the venue. Cardstock sheets will be handed out to the first 400 visitors, and a sticker will be given for taking part in each booth's activity. Among those who collect every sticker, the first 110 visitors will receive a prize.
Inquiries
Furusato Nishi Ward Promotion Committee (Secretariat: Regional Promotion Division, Yokohama City Nishi Ward Office)
TEL: 045-320-8389
Official event page: https://www.city.yokohama.lg.jp/nishi/event-bosyu/kanko/mushinone2026.html
