One night each year, Kotogahama Beach in Geisei Village, Kochi Prefecture, takes on a magical glow as hundreds of handmade bamboo lanterns illuminate the shore.
The Kotogahama Bamboo Lantern Evening takes place on October 31 for 2026, with the lanterns lighting up from 5:00pm. Set against the Pacific Ocean, the event combines the glow of bamboo lanterns with moonlight, the sound of waves, live music, and food from local vendors. Kotogahama is known as one of Japan's 100 best moon-viewing spots, making it a particularly atmospheric setting for an evening beneath the autumn sky.
The lanterns also have a story of their own. Bamboo is harvested from neglected bamboo groves in the village, turning a local environmental issue into a community resource. Residents take part in everything from cutting the bamboo and drilling the designs to decorating the finished lanterns. The result is a display that reflects the time and care invested by the local community.
Alongside the illumination, visitors can enjoy live music and food trucks and stalls while taking in the ocean views. Admission is free, and the event runs from 3:00pm to 8:30pm.
The event will proceed in light rain but may be canceled in severe weather.
