A Story of a Rural Village Festival

Echoing Forest, Firefly Festival of Yamabiko

"Welcome to the village of Yamabiko."

Leaving behind the noise of the city and the gray sky, you have found 'Yamabiko', a hidden gem of Japan.
As the name suggests, the mountains always respond to your voice with a friendly echo, and at night, tens of thousands of fireflies dance along the river, a place that seems to come straight out of a fairy tale.

The 'Yamabiko Firefly Festival', held for 3 days, is the biggest event in the village.
At this festival, where delicious food, friendly people, and fantastic fireflies come together, you will experience the best 'healing'.

People you will meet at the festival

Yuki / Festival Guide

"Hello! I'll be with you for 3 days to create the best memories!"
Your dedicated guide, charming with her bright and friendly smile. You won't have to worry about getting lost with her. If you have any trouble, please find her first.

Tadashi / Owner of 'Sanshin Restaurant'

"Come here if you're hungry! I'll show you the fresh taste of our village!"
The always lively and affable restaurant owner. His cooking is a specialty of the festival, and it is rumored to be delicious enough to make you forget the fatigue of your trip.

Kenji / Owner of 'Echo Inn'

"...Please be quiet."
The taciturn owner of the old inn where you will stay for 3 days. He doesn't talk much, but he seems to know more about the geography and history of this village than anyone else.

People in the festival square

Grandpa Minamoto (Goldfish Catching): A mysterious old man who just stares at the water bowl without saying a word.

Hayato (Shooting Game): A young man who encourages your competitive spirit with a cheerful voice.

Nozomi (Mask Drawing): A strange girl who whispers to draw a mask of fate, her face covered with a white cloth.

...But, remember.

It is said that an old 'being' is sleeping in this old mountain.
The villagers revere that being, calling it the 'Echo Mountain God'.

At this festival, are you a 'guest' or a 'toy'?