Destination Spotlight

Crossing Mugenkyo Ravine by Ferry (Mugenkyo no Watashi)

Crossing Mugenkyo Ravine by Ferry (Mugenkyo no Watashi)

I had seen some amazing photos of the Mugenkyo Ferry (夢幻峡の渡し)passing through the beautiful emerald water of the Tadami River, and was excited to go and experience the ferry ride for myself. So I headed off to Mishima Town to meet Hoshi san, who had kindly offered to show me around.

MY EXPERIENCE OF THE MUGENKYO FERRY (MUGENKYO NO WATASHI)

The ferry leaves from a tiny jetty near the public hot spring facility called ‘Tsuru no Yu’. The jetty was a bit hard to see from the car park of Tsuru no Yu, but I spotted it when I walked to the back of the public hot spring, and followed some steps down to the water’s edge.

From here, the jetty was easy to spot, because it was very close to an onsen shrine (onsen jinja 温泉神社) that caught my eye. This has got to be one of the most picturesque shrines I’ve been to.

After I took photos at the shrine, I continued on to a small building next to the jetty. This building was complete with an odd wooden structure, from which water was streaming. Upon closer inspection (and after getting our hands burned) my colleague and I deduced that this was in fact the source of the local hot spring water!

It wasn’t long before Hoshi san made his dramatic entrance on his wooden boat. He looked awesome in his sunglasses and happi robe (happi 法被).

After getting kitted up with a life jacket, Hoshi took me across the ravine.

It was so relaxing to be taken across the surface of the Tadami River. It struck me while taking the ferry across the ravine that I couldn’t hear any of the busy noises of the city that can make you feel stressed or distracted. In fact, the only sounds I could hear were the wind, the birds, and the slow rhythmic paddling of Hoshi san’s oar gliding through the surface of the river.

Hoshi san’s recommendation for enjoying the best Mugenkyo Ferry experience is to lie flat on your back in the middle of the boat and have a nap. I’m not sure whether his customers can actually do this, or if it’s just something he’s been able to try, but it sounds amazing!

The journey to the other side of Mishima Town takes 30 minutes one way, during which time you get some great views. It was really cool to see buildings like the Tsuru no Yu onsen from such a different angle. The reflections looked amazing.

Tsuru no Yu Onsen is a great hot spring in the Oku-Aizu area of Fukushima Prefecture. Unfortunately, I have yet to take a dip, but I definitely want to go soon. Knowing how relaxing it was to be on the ferry, I can just imagine how amazing it would feel to chill out in the onsen looking out over the Tadami River.

One thing that visitors should note about visiting Tsuru no Yu Onsen, however, is that the open-air baths (rotenburo 露天風呂)are totally exposed to the elements. Seeing as the only thing surrounding the onsen is a river, usually this isn’t an issue, but I can say firsthand that people in the open-air baths can definitely be seen from the ferry!

I actually had to edit the naked guys who were sitting on the edge of the bath out of the photo below…

These sightseeing ferries are made from boats that were used by local people crossing between areas of the Mishima area over 50 years ago. For Japanese people, riding in one of these boats is very nostalgic.

The running of sightseeing ferries between the different areas of Mishima began in 2010 but was halted in 2011 when the Great East Japan Earthquake caused infrastructural damage to Mishima and surrounding areas. The ferry service was restarted in 2017.

If you visit the area and travel on the Mugenkyo Ferry during the early morning in summer, you’re likely to get to see picturesque mist atop the Tadami River. This makes for some very beautiful photos.

The Mugenkyo Ravine Ferries are operated by Kenko Hoshi, an extremely talented local photographer who specializes in capturing the beauty of Oku-Aizu and the Tadami Line. Kenko Hoshi has an incredible amount of energy and enthusiasm for his hometown.

Below are just a couple of photos taken of the Mugenkyo Ferry by Hoshi san. It’s quite possible that if you have seen photographs of the Tadami River No. 1 Bridge they were probably taken by him.

Hoshi san was brought up in Mishima Town, on the opposite side to where visitors start their journey. Hoshi san’s hometown area is now what is known as a ‘haison 廃村’ or ‘ghost town’.

The ground on which the town was built is prone to landslides. As a result, the area has fallen victim to a number of related disasters over the centuries. A really intense landslide hit Mishima in 1964 and finally forced the local people to move to the opposite side of the Tadami River. Nothing was left behind, save for one traditional farmhouse built 300 years ago, a shrine, temple, and Buddhist statue.

I wholeheartedly recommend this experience as something to try out when traveling on the Tadami Line, as it is easily accessible from Hayato Station. It’s a must-visit for those hoping to see countryside Japan during their visit to the prefecture, as well as for those who are passionate about photography like myself.

If you’d like to take a journey on the Mugenkyo Ferry, please take a look at the information below!

BASIC INFORMATION*

*Correct as of August 2023

  • Boats run throughout the day between late April and November.
  • The journey takes 45 minutes both ways (participants do not get off the boat until they go back to the start).
  • In summer, the boats run between 6:00 AM and sunset.
  • If you’d like to see the picturesque Tadami River mist, it’s best to ask for Hoshi’s recommendation regarding the best day (and time of day) to visit.
  • See more information (from Oku-Aizu Tourism) about the Mugenkyo (Mugenkyo no Watashi) here.
  • Hoshi san can’t guide you in English, so he won’t be able to guide you around the deserted town on the opposite side of the river.

 

HOW TO BOOK

PRICE

  • Flat fee of 6,000 yen for 1 or 2 people. Additional 3,000 yen per additional person for three or more people (three people: 9,000 yen; Four people: 12,000 yen, etc.)
  • Up to 8 participants per time.

CHOOSE A MEETING POINT

  • When you reserve, make sure to state whether you’d like to meet Hoshi san or his colleague at the main jetty near Tsuru no Yu (where I met him), or if you’d like him to come meet you at Hayato Station, on the Tadami Line. See here for the Tadami Line train schedule.
  • If coming by train, make sure to tell the staff what time of day your train will arrive.

FINDING THE TSURU NO YU JETTY

  • If you are driving, park at Tsuru no Yu Onsen.
  • Walk down to the water’s edge.
  • There will be a shrine nearby and a small wooden building near the jetty.

OTHER INFORMATION FOR VISITORS

  • As of summer 2020, there are a number of portable toilet facilities close to Tsuru no Yu, for customers of the Mugenkyo ferry.
  • The ferry will run even in case of rain or wind (please bring an umbrella). Appointments may be canceled in case of heavy rain.

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    8 Things to Do in Nihonmatsu

    Nestled between Fukushima and Koriyama, the sleepy city of Nihonmatsu is surrounded by beautiful nature on all sides. With both cities accessible in short order by shinkansen from Tokyo, Nihonmatsu makes for a great day trip while seeing other sights in this region of Japan.The area is at its most lively during festival season, centring around October and November, but there’s something to visit in Nihonmatsu year-round. Let’s take a look at some of the best spots for a trip to this hidden gem:Climb Mt. AdataraAt 1,700m tall, Mt. Adatara is one of Fukushima’s most famous regions for hikers. It’s also very accessible thanks to a gondola lift, departing from Adatara Kogen Ski Resort at the base, which takes visitors up as far as 1,300m.Regardless of how you make the climb, you’ll be treated to gorgeous views over the surrounding hillsides, especially in autumn when the foliage turns a vibrant gold and orange. This is a great option for hikers of all experience levels, with the trails well-marked and fairly wide throughout the trek.Kasumigajo Castle ParkIn 1868, Nihonmatsu Castle was torn down after forces loyal to the fading shogunate were defeated in the Boshin War. These days only the walls remain, but the castle park is a beautiful spot and listed as a prefectural natural park. In autumn, it’s the site of the charming Nihonmatsu Chrysanthemum Doll Festival, while in spring, the park comes alive as over 1700 cherry trees bloom a beautiful pink.Nihonmatsu Lantern FestivalOne of the best festivals in the prefecture, the lantern festival in Nihonmatsu is held every year at the start of October. Seven giant floats parade through the streets decorated with hundreds of traditional lanterns, each lit by hand by a platoon of talented local townspeople. Each float is then filled with drummers, pulled along by groups of dancers, and cheered on by local students – it’s a powerful atmosphere, and the visuals of the glowing lanterns in the night is hard to beat anywhere in Japan.The festival takes three days; the first day (Saturday) is considered the main day, when all seven floats parade in a single line. On Sunday they tour the city separately, before parading in two groups on the Monday.Visit this page for more information about Fukushima's incredible festival culture.Relax at Dake OnsenMany people choose to experience Japanese culture first-hand during their trip by soaking in a hot spring, or onsen. While it’s not for everyone – clothing is not permitted at most public hot springs – there are options for non-bathers, too. Fukushima has a wealth of onsen towns, served by piping-hot water sourced directly from its many mountains, and Dake Onsen is one of its most charming. But for those not taking a dip, the town still has a pleasant atmosphere perfect for taking a stroll, footbath facilities, and the beautiful road of Sakurazaka (especially beautiful in cherry blossom season!)Take the Extreme Onsen challengeFor those wanting to try an onsen where swimsuits are allowed, this challenge might be right up your alley. A robust hike up an active volcano, with the help of a local guide, and you’ll be soaking in the hot springs of Mt. Adatara directly at the source. The tour is only offered during the summer, since the trail can be dangerous while winter snow remains on the mountain. The Extreme Onsen hike is a truly unique experience, and works great for either groups or as a solo trip.Visit a sake breweryFukushima has a stellar reputation as one of Japan’s best sake-brewing regions. With over seventy breweries in the prefecture, many of which have been making sake for centuries, there’s a reason Fukushima sake constantly wins gold medals at the Annual Sake Awards and has been served at major events worldwide.Seeing the inside of a brewery during your trip to Japan is a must for anyone interested in Japanese cuisine or sake. An option in Nihonmatsu is Himonoya, similarly traditional in that it only brews sake during the winter. Both offer brewery tours, albeit with limited English support, so for guests looking to know more about the sake brewing process, some knowledge of Japanese or an interpreter will be required.Make washi (traditional Japanese paper)Washi paper is a fascinating traditional craft with over a thousand years of history. Handmade from natural fibers, it’s renowned for its strength, beauty, and translucency. Unlike Western paper, washi is produced using meticulous techniques passed down through generations and its versatility spans from everyday items and calligraphy to art conservation and interior design.At the Nihonmatsu Washi Traditional Crafts Gallery, you can learn about the history of the craft, see the kozo (paper mulberry) it’s made from, and make postcards or lampshades to take home as a souvenir. It’s an excellent family activity and well worth a trip.Ebisu Drift CircuitThe famous drift circuit at Ebisu brings hundreds of visitors from overseas every year to experience Japanese drift culture first-hand. The circuit features seven unique courses of varying styles and difficulty levels, and hosts a plethora of racing events throughout the year. Most popular is the Ebisu Drift Matsuri, a drift festival held three times a year, with certain courses only usable for drifting during that weekend.Related informationDay trip itinerary in Nihonmatsu CityOther activities in Fukushima PrefectureGetting to Fukushima

    8 Things to Do in Nihonmatsu
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    The Guide to Every Fukushima Festival in 2025

    Many visitors to Japan plan their trips to arrive in spring or autumn, and that’s very understandable; some of Japan’s best scenery can be enjoyed during April’s cherry blossom season or the beautiful autumn colours in October and November.But when friends or family ask me which I prefer, I have a different answer - for a chance at a genuinely unique Japan experience, you should base the timing of your trip around going to a major festival.Japanese festivals, routinely held once a year, are often grand showy events centred on some historical event or cultural phenomenon. They bring local people together and often function more like big parties, fostering a sense of community. Some of my favourite memories in Japan come from festivals, trying different food stalls or watching performances that can’t be seen any other time of the year.With that in mind, I went to every single major Fukushima festival (and some minor ones), and here is everything you need to know. Or: scroll to the bottom for my top picks of the can’t-miss events.(in chronological order: dates shown are the upcoming edition of the festival where known)Nanokado Hadaka Mairi Festival7 January every yearTranslating roughly as ‘the naked shrine visit on the 7th January’, this festival kicks the calendar year off in style. In the heart of winter in chilly Yanaizu Town, a group of men in nothing but loincloths climb hundreds of steps to the historic Enzoji Temple. Here, they climb a single rope to the top of the shrine, honouring an old legend of a community that banded together against a powerful dragon.The festival has a fantastic atmosphere, with crowds of people packing into Enzoji Temple’s small central hall to watch the chaos. Taking photos and videos is allowed, although it can get a little frantic, and tripods can’t be used in the main hall. Visitors can also participate, assuming they apply in advance.Also nearby: Tadami River Bridge No.1, Chansey Park Yanaizu, akabeko paintingAizu-Misato and Aizu-Bange Bale-Pulling Festivals11 January & 14 JanuaryHeld on the same dates every year, these raucous festivals centre around a great tug-of-war over a massive hay bale. Townspeople split into teams of two - east and west - and compete in three contests, with the winners said to predict whether business will prosper (east) or there will be a bountiful harvest (west).The Aizu-Bange festival, the later of the two, sees participants compete in loincloths, something of a running theme with Fukushima’s winter festivals.Iwaki Tsurushi-bina Matsuri1 week, late January - early FebruaryTaking place in the Nakanosaku area of Iwaki, located in the southeastern part of the prefecture, this event is the ideal time to explore the port town. Visitors can enjoy vibrant exhibitions of handcrafted dolls and traditional folk art made from chirimen fabric, commonly used in kimono making.The centerpiece of the event is at Seikokan, a historic residence where more than 3,000 fabric dolls are suspended from the eaves.On weekends, the area also features various stalls selling food and local goods.Also nearby: Fukushima Aquamarine, Shiramizu Amidado TempleAizu Painted Candle FestivalEarly FebruaryAlthough cancelled in 2025 due to heavy snow, Tsurugajo Castle and the nearby pleasant garden of Oyaku-en are lit up every year with tens of thousand of candles, some in gorgeous wooden cases or bamboo lanterns carved by talented local craftsmen. The beautiful night scenery makes for unforgettable photos, and the event combines well with the next two festivals, which take place on the same weekend.Ouchi-juku Snow FestivalEarly FebruaryDancing and drumming performances. Fireworks. Eating contests. Food stalls. And finally, a procession of men in loincloths marching through the snow with flaming torches. The Ouchi-juku Snow Festival is like several festivals rolled into one, taking place in one of Japan’s most scenic traditional villages.A community event first and foremost, this is an excellent event for families since most events feature some kind of crowd interaction, such as joining the dancing or drumming groups on stage to try the activity yourself. For some visitors the torch procession and fireworks display will be the main reason to go; the procession typically starts at 5pm, the fireworks at 6pm.Visitors may choose to stay at a nearby onsen town like Yunokami Onsen or Ashinomaki Onsen, but do keep in mind that bookings around festival time fill up quite quickly for these areas.Tadami Snow FestivalEarly FebruaryMost famous for its massive ice sculptures and projection mapping, the Tadami Snow Festival is the biggest event of the year for the small town of Tadami in western Fukushima. Like its older brother at Ouchi-juku, you can expect fireworks, food stalls and local crafts for sale.The event takes place in front of Tadami Station. Visitors travelling by car should be aware that heavy snow is possible and roads in the Tadami area can be narrow.Also nearby: Tadami River Bridge No.1 ViewpointShirakawa Daruma Market11 February every yearDaruma dolls, known as traditional symbols of good fortune, are closely associated with Shirakawa City, home to two prominent workshops where visitors can observe skilled artisans at work. Each year on February 11th, the city hosts this lively market that draws in thousands of people.The event features a vibrant atmosphere, with more than 500 stalls to explore. Daruma dolls are available in 18 different sizes; according to tradition, you fill in the left eye of the daruma while making a wish, and then complete the right eye once your wish comes true.Mt. Shinobu Waraji Procession - 'Akatsuki Mairi'Third Saturday of FebruaryThe ‘Akatsuki Mairi’ procession is a partner event of August’s major Waraji Festival, in which squads of locals carry massive sandals in honour of a deity said to protect farm workers. Here in mid-February, a similar crew come together – with anyone welcome to register and join – to carry the great sandal up to Haguro Shrine atop Mt. Shinobu.Previously the event was held on a weekday, but from 2025 was moved to the third Saturday of February to encourage more carriers for the giant sandal. I participated in 2025 and found it to be a fun community event with a great energy - albeit my shoulder was sore for about a week afterwards!Cherry Blossom FestivalsAprilFukushima is famous for its abundance of excellent cherry blossom areas – in fact, when we made our Google Maps list of notable spots, we were stunned at how many places you can see astonishing vistas throughout April and May. Given the prefecture’s massive width, you can see blossoms at full bloom somewhere in Fukushima for about six weeks in a row.Several of these famous cherry blossom spots around the prefecture hold cherry blossom ‘festivals’, typically involving late-night illuminations and food stalls. These include: Tsurugajo Castle, Kannonjigawa River in Inawashiro, the Nicchusen weeping cherry blossoms in Kitakita City, and the Yonomori sakura road in Tomioka Town.Soma Nomaoi FestivalLate MayThe Soma samurai clan once ruled the eastern part of Fukushima on the backs of their famous cavalry divisions, and the region has a rich horse-rearing heritage, celebrated in the yearly Soma Nomaoi Festival. Though taking place over three days, the main day of the festival is the middle day, which features a horseback parade through town by warriors in full armour.The main event takes place at the central horse-racing grounds, where the armoured samurai go head-to-head in several high-paced races, while there is also a contest to catch falling flags launched by fireworks. The whole event is impressive for its scale and prestige, with hundreds of samurai of all ages taking part in the parade.Also nearby: Soma Nakamura ShrineAizu-Tajima Gion Festival22 - 24 July 2025Based in Minami-Aizu, this long-standing festival, designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset, boasts a history spanning more than 800 years. A central attraction is the elegant parade of women clad in traditional Japanese bridal attire as they proceed toward the town’s central shrine. Another notable feature is the kabuki theater performed by local children, which adds to the festival’s charm.Aizu-Tajima is accessible directly from Asakusa Station in Tokyo via the Aizu Revaty express train (3 hours).Lake Numazawa Festival (Kaneyama Town)2 - 3 August 2025Held on the first Saturday and Sunday of August, the Lake Numazawa festival re-enacts an old folk tale that a dragon once lived in this mysterious lake and was defeated by a local man over 800 years ago. This is a charming event taking place in a beautiful locale, with fireworks displays in the evening on both days.Also nearby: Kaneyama Fureai Hiroba viewpointWaraji Matsuri / Sandal Festival2 - 3 August 2025Fukushima City’s main festival for the year, this sprawling event sees a long dancing procession throughout the city streets, with dozens of different food stalls. Local interest groups and companies send delegations - including a group of largely overseas residents of the city - that perform the historic ‘Waraji dance’ on the way towards Fukushima Station.Possibly most striking is the huge straw sandal, which leads the procession with a single rider atop it, and is occasionally spun or tossed into the air by a crew of local university students.The festival has a fun atmosphere, is easily accessible from Tokyo, and is the only festival you’ll find in Japan that centres around a giant sandal!Also nearby: Iizaka Onsen, Fruit Line fruit pickingAizu Festival19 - 21 September 2025The Aizu Festival features drumming and food stalls on night one, before the main event the following day of a grand samurai procession through the town by local people, dressed as great samurai lords and their retainers. Overseas guests can join as samurai too - learn more here. Visually, this is one of the prefecture’s most striking festivals, since the lords’ parade begins at Tsurugajo Castle and winds its way through the entire city.Also nearby: Oyaku-en traditional garden, Sazaedo TempleKenka Matsuri (Iizaka Onsen Fighting Festival)4 October 2025Iizaka Onsen is a beautiful hot spring town with a calming atmosphere. But one night a year, all the neighbourhoods bring lantern floats filled with drummers to Hachiman Shrine and slam into one another, intending to determine the strongest local clan for the year. The main part of the festival takes place on the Saturday night, when the floats parade through the streets on their way to the shrine.With a serious ‘fight feel’ in the air, a wide variety of food stalls, and a unique main event, this was the best time I had at a festival all year. It does gets very busy though, so I actually recommend skipping the parade and heading straight to the shrine to get a good spot.Also nearby: Kyu Horikiri-tei traditional residence, Nakano Fudoson TempleNihonmatsu Lantern Festival4-6 October 2025The pleasant town of Nihonmatsu sits between Fukushima and Koriyama, making it something of a sleepy commuter town. On the first weekend of October every year, the town holds its Lantern Festival, in which seven giant floats parade through the town, filled with pounding drummers and decorated with flickering lanterns. All seven floats are only together on the first day of the festival, typically Saturday, then separate on Sunday, then they’re split into groups of three and four for the Monday.For its combination of great atmosphere, great visuals and great performances, this is one of the festivals you absolutely shouldn’t miss. The festival does overlap with the Saturday main event of Kenka Matsuri; in the past I have gone to Kenka Matsuri on the Saturday, then seen the lantern floats (divided into three and four) on the following Monday.Also nearby: Kasumigajo Castle Park, Mt. Adatara, Extreme Onsen challengeTaimatsu Akashi (Torch Festival)8 November 2025Watching the 21 torches of Sukagawa City’s Torch Festival burn to a thunderous chorus of drums and chanting students - Taimatsu Akashi is a festival experience unlike many others in Japan. 20 of the torches are brought by local schools, who form squads to cheer on their torch, while the one huge Dai-taimatsu torch - standing 10 metres tall and weighing 3 tonnes - burns at the forefront. This biggest torch is paraded through town by a multi-national crew in the early evening, with other festivities held throughout the city, but the main event is the lighting of the torches from 6.30pm.Kohata Flag FestivalFirst weekend of DecemberA charming community event in a suburb of Nihonmatsu, the Kohata Flag Festival sees local people coming together to carry a procession of massive, colourful flags to Okitsushima Shrine at the top of Mt. Kohata. The walk takes several hours and you’ll definitely feel like you’ve gotten some exercise, but you’ll also get to see a beautiful part of rural Japan and meet with its friendly residents. Wearing footwear suitable for hiking and bringing snacks or a small lunch is recommended.I wrote more about my experience in Kohata here.My Main RecommendationsFukushima has a huge number of festivals, with every town, city and village holding at least one major event throughout the year. But if I had to prioritise only the best of the best, the ones I found to be an absolute must-visit, my suggestions would be:January: Nanokado Hadaka Mairi (Naked man rope climb)February: Ouchi-juku snow festival (Fireworks, flaming torch parade)May: Soma Nomaoi Festival (Samurai horse racing)September: Aizu Festival (Samurai parade)October: Kenka Matsuri (Fighting festival in an onsen town)October: Nihonmatsu Lantern Festival (Parade of lantern floats)November: Taimatsu Akashi (Burning torch festival)Have any questions about logistics or event details? Email us at i-info@tif.ne.jp or use our contact form.

    The Guide to Every Fukushima Festival in 2025
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    Ebisu Drift Festival: A Total Guide

    Ebisu Drift Festival, also known as the Ebisu Drift Matsuri, is a two-day extravaganza of drifting that takes place three times a year - spring, summer and autumn - at the world-famous Ebisu Circuit in Nihonmatsu, Fukushima. It's open for anyone to join, either as a driver, passenger or a spectator.In addition to drifting seven courses freely over the course of two days, this is your chance to join a dedicated community, from amateurs to pros, who turn up in huge numbers every year to experience drifting in the heartland of northern Japan.Looking to visit the circuit and experience the festival yourself? Here's everything you need to know:What is the Ebisu Drift Matsuri?Located halfway between charming Nihonmatsu City and the dominating Mt. Adatara to the west, the Ebisu Circuit runs racing events throughout the year. But none is more popular than the Drift Matsuri, typically held in April, August and November.For reference, here are the Ebisu Drift Matsuri dates for 2025: Spring: April 19th & 20th (Sat/Sun) Summer: August 23rd & 24th (Sat/Sun) Autumn: November 15th & 16th (Sat/Sun)The G1GP, a drifting competition held exclusively for overseas visitors, is held on the Friday night preceding the weekend.AccessWhile driving up from Tokyo is possible, it's a long journey - upwards of three and a half hours - that mostly sticks to highways and can be costly for toll roads.Many visitors choose to take the shinkansen (bullet train) as far as Koriyama Station - taking about 75 minutes from Tokyo Station - then rent a car there to drive to the circuit. Popular rental services include: Toyota Times Car Rental ORIX JR Rent-A-CarThese all have stores at Koriyama Station and can be reserved online in English.(Overseas visitors using rental cars must have a valid license to drive in Japan, such as an International Driver's Permit acquired in your home country.)Taking a local train as far as Nihonmatsu Station, then a taxi to the circuit, is also a potential option. Be aware that the circuit is quite spread out, and although it's possible to walk from course to course, the elevation can be extremely steep in places. Using a car is recommended, and especially one with enough power to get up steep slopes.TicketsFor the 2025 spring edition, I arrived shortly after gates opened at 8.00am and there was already a queue forming outside the complex. (Volunteer staff were on hand to direct traffic.) Shortly after I arrived, a second lane was opened, and after that the line moved quickly into the circuit.As a non-driver, I paid 3,000 yen - this was 2,500 yen for a spectator ticket, plus 500 yen to cover insurance for possible ridealongs. Full-face helmets are required for all drivers and passengers and can be rented at the course. I received a green spectator wristband, which the staff ask you to keep on for the duration of the weekend. (Children's tickets are 1,200 yen.)Tickets to enter the festival as a driver are 20,000 yen online in advance (see the Ebisu Drift Circuit website in Japanese for more information) or 25,000 yen at the gate. Drivers receive a red wristband, without which you are unable to enter the track, plus a large seal which must be affixed somewhere visible on the car such as a rear window.How many courses are there?The Ebisu circuit is a massive complex with several excellent tracks. Times are accurate as of the 2025 spring festival.Kita (North): One of the most popular circuits throughout the weekend and one of the best for getting up close to the action. Cars roaring down the back stretch whizz past mere inches from the watching spectators. This course is open from 9am until midnight on the Saturday night, making it a popular spot to watch those brave enough to drift in near darkness. 07:00 - 16:00 Sunday.Car parking at North course has priority given to drivers - spectators should find space on the road or in the lots on the slope.Nishi (West): Traditionally a track for grip racing, Nishi also features a famous short course that sees long drift trains in the final hour of Sunday (approx. from 3pm). 09:00 - 16:00 both days.Higashi (East): A long grip racing track that is only available for drifting during the festival. Also features the main circuit office. 09:00 - 22:00 Saturday, 09:00 - 16:00 Sunday.Minami (South): Formerly a famous drift track, the south course is now a 'slide park'. 09:00 - 16:00 both days.Touge: This mountainous course is notorious for its tight bends, narrow track and elevation changes. This is less traversed during the festival and known as less beginner-friendly. 09:00 - 16:00 Saturday, 07:00 - 16:00 Sunday.School Course: A wide, open short course perfect for practising tandem technique or warming up.'Kuru Kuru Land': Two skid pads located on the road to Nishi course where drivers often go to practise donuts.Things to Do While You're in TownNihonmatsu is a beautiful area famous for its lush nature and traditional Japanese architecture. Here are some ideas for side trips: Hike the gorgeous Mt. Adatara and see the incredible view from the summit. Especially striking in November during autumn colour season. Attempt the Extreme Onsen challenge, climbing an active volcano to soak in a real hot spring river Visit Kasumigajo Castle Park, an excellent spot in cherry blossom season (usually blooming around spring festival dates) or in autumn. Mid-October to mid-November there is a famous flower festival where mannequins are layered with chrysanthemums. Sample sake for free at Himonoya brewery Make traditional washi paper at a real craftsman's workshop (great for families!) Take in the ethereal atmosphere at Ryusenji Temple Head to Dake Onsen, a hot spring town known for its tunnel of cherry blossoms and onsen optionsOther Tips and TricksHere are some other pieces of advice I picked up during my trip: Everyone is extremely friendly and happy to chat! Where possible, I tried to ask for permission before taking photos or videos of cars, though this is probably not necessary. Cars for the festival can be rented at the Sideways Experience, a drift school based at North Course. Equally you can buy from Power Vehicles, a trusted dealer and mechanic based on the road towards Touge and Higashi courses, who will offer support and repairs with any issues. The circuit is famous for its lack of hard rules, but there are a couple: no drinking and driving, and drivers should obey yellow and red flags from the circuit staff. Your wristband is valid for the whole weekend and re-entry is possible. The circuit is connected to a local zoo, so the track restaurant is safari-themed and serves common Japanese fare like curries and noodle dishes. There's a gas station on site, or across the road from the front gate.More information: Getting to Fukushima Top 10 Things to Do in Fukushima Cultural activities in Fukushima

    Ebisu Drift Festival: A Total Guide
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