【April 2026】Discover Nishinoshima Town’s Annual “Kuniga Biraki Festa”

“Kuniga Biraki Festa” marks the arrival of spring and the tourism season in Nishinoshima Town annually.
This event features a variety of activities across the island, and in this article, we will take a look at the 2026 program, which includes: illuminated cherry blossoms, night kagura performances, coastal clean-up and the popular Sunset Café.

• Table of Contents
• Illuminated Cherry Blossoms (April 1–about 2 weeks)
• Enjoy Yokagura Performance at Yurahime Shrine (April 4 & April 11, Saturday)
• Coastal Clean-Up at Kuniga Bay (April 12, Sunday)
• Sunset Café at Kuniga Coast (April 25, Saturday)
• For more information
• Experience Spring on Nishinoshima

Illuminated Cherry Blossoms (April 1–about 2 weeks)

Nishinoshima Island lies in the Sea of Japan, and the cherry blossoms here typically reach full bloom in late March to early April.
There are several viewing spots on the island and you can enjoy the pretty sight under the blue sky during the day, or go for the illuminated magic at night.
This year, cherry blossom illuminations will be held at Yurahime Shrine, Mita Hachiman Shrine and Kuroki-gosho Imperial Residence Site for about two weeks starting April 1. 

The island’s calm and peaceful atmosphere makes cherry blossom viewing especially enjoyable.

*Nishinoshima is a quiet town, so when viewing the cherry blossoms, please be considerate of the local residents, refrain from loud conversations or gatherings, and be sure to take your trash with you.
Please be mindful of your manners so that everyone can enjoy the beauty and quiet atmosphere of the blossoms.

Enjoy Yokagura Performance at Yurahime Shrine (April 4 & April 11, Saturday)

Kagura is a traditional Shinto ritual dance and music performance dedicated to the deities.

Nishinoshima is part of Shimane Prefecture, which has long been associated with Japanese deities. Kagura is a traditional Shinto ritual dance and music performance dedicated to the deities. There are many forms of kagura in the prefecture, and Dōzen Kagura is the form passed down in the Dōzen area, where Nishinoshima is located.
Since there are no regular kagura performances held in town, this event provides a rare opportunity to appreciate the art; with the other being the grand summer festivals.
The combination of illuminated cherry blossoms and kagura performances creates a particularly magical atmosphere.

Coastal Clean-Up at Kuniga Bay (April 12, Sunday)

One of the main events of “Kuniga Biraki Festa” is the walk-in, voluntary coastal clean-up at Kuniga Bay.
Marine debris, such as fishing ropes and plastic bottles, often washes ashore from the Sea of Japan. Located on the north-western side of Nishinoshima Island, Kuniga Coast faces the Sea of Japan, which is why marine debris is often found here, especially after the windy winter season.
Volunteers gather on a Sunday morning before the tourist season to help clean Kuniga Bay.
Bags and gloves are provided by the event organizer, so participants can join without bringing equipment.
It is an opportunity to enjoy spring travel while contributing to the preservation of the island’s natural environment.

Sunset Café at Kuniga Coast (April 25, Saturday)

This year’s Kuniga Biraki Festa concludes with the Sunset Café at Kuniga Coast.
Visitors can enjoy drinks, sweets and the view of the setting sun at Kuniga Bay car park.

Although the event is weather-dependent, on clear days the sun slowly disappears below the horizon, offering a memorable experience for all present.

For more information

Please check the official social media account of Nishinoshima Town Tourism Association for the updates regarding time and dates.

Experience Spring on Nishinoshima

Marking the start of the tourism season in Nishinoshima, “Kuniga Biraki Festa” brings together nature, tradition, and island life.
From cherry blossoms and nighttime kagura performances, to coastal clean-up and the Sunset Café, you can enjoy experiences unique to the island.
This is a chance to witness the charm of spring on Nishinoshima in a way that is both engaging and authentic.

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