Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture (Mayor: Takahiro Katsuragawa) announced details of the Kyoto Kameoka Balloon Festival 2026, taking place April 4 (Saturday) to 6 (Monday), 2026. The event is organized by the Kyoto Kameoka Balloon Festival Executive Committee (Chairman: Masanobu Okumura; Secretariat: Kameoka City Lifelong Sports Division).
This competition serves as the season opener for the 2026 Japan Ranking System, one of only seven official ranking competitions held annually in Japan. Since announcing the event in December 2025, the festival has received significant attention. The organizers now share comprehensive details including tethered balloon ride reservations starting March 2 (Monday) and diverse programs designed for all ages.
Experience the Opening Battle of Japan's Premier Sky Sport
The Japan Ranking System represents the pinnacle of hot air balloon competition. Among the seven precious official competitions held nationwide, the Kameoka event draws attention as the season opener that sets the tone for the entire ranking season. Approximately 20 top pilots from across Japan will gather to demonstrate advanced piloting techniques as they compete to reach targets with precision—a truly spectacular sight.
Reservations Open March 2: Tethered Balloon Ride Experience
Tethered balloon ride reservations open March 2 (Monday), 2026. Rising approximately 20 meters above ground, participants enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of Kameoka's natural landscape. This "sky journey" welcomes people of all ages. The experience of floating upward in the crisp morning air, accompanied by the roar of the burner, creates a truly special moment.
※ For reservation details, check the official website or official SNS accounts.
Official Website: https://www.kyoto-kameoka-balloon.com/
Ground Programs: Multi-Sensory Entertainment
Beyond competitive flights, the festival offers diverse activities allowing couples, families with children, and visitors of all generations to enjoy a full day of entertainment.
Marker Challenge (First-Time Event)
Experience the essence of competition—"marker drop to target"—from ground level. Understanding the pilot's perspective makes watching the competition even more engaging.
Balloon Illusion (April 4 Evening)
Multiple hot air balloons ignite their burners simultaneously, creating rhythmic light displays synchronized with music. The balloons reveal a fantastical appearance completely different from their daytime form.
Hot Air Balloon Classroom
Pilots explain the physical principles of balloon flight and the history of humanity's quest to reach the sky. Visitors can touch the balloon fabric and basket, experiencing their scale firsthand through this interactive learning program.
Marche Market: Enjoy Breakfast While Viewing Balloons
The venue features a marche market offering food and merchandise. Various local vendors provide food stalls and beverages, allowing families and friends to enjoy lively dining between competition viewing and experiences.
Mayor Takahiro Katsuragawa's Comment
The 2026 hot air balloon competition season finally opens here in Kameoka City. As one of only seven official competitions nationwide, we have prepared the finest environment. This event welcomes everyone, featuring tethered balloon rides with reservations starting March 2 and our first-ever Marker Challenge. After celebrating our 70th city anniversary, I look forward to sharing this moment as we gaze upward at Kameoka's sky, taking a new step forward together.
Event Overview
Name: Kyoto Kameoka Balloon Festival 2026
Dates: April 4 (Saturday) to 6 (Monday), 2026
Location: Special venue in Kameoka City (Hozugawa Riverside Park)
Programs: Competitive flights (3 days), Balloon Illusion (April 4 evening), Marker Challenge, tethered balloon rides, hot air balloon classroom, eco-marche
About Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture
Located west of Kyoto City, Kameoka offers excellent access—just 20 minutes by express train from JR Kyoto Station—while surrounded by abundant nature, embodying "Tokainaka" (urban convenience meets countryside charm). Sanga Stadium by KYOCERA, which opened in 2020, serves as a new hub of activity, hosting not only sports events but diverse programs.
The city prioritizes children first, strongly supporting families raising children. Child-related facilities throughout the city include Galleria Kameoka and KIRI no KO (at Sanga Stadium by KYOCERA).
- City official website: https://www.city.kameoka.kyoto.jp/
- City official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kameokacity/
