Yubatake Candle Yume no Akari
湯畑キャンドル「夢の灯り」36°37′ N 138°36′ EFestivalNov 14, 2026
The Yubatake candle nights suit anyone staying in Kusatsu on the right Saturday, and they last only an evening, so plan the trip around the date.
Dates and hours
- March 20, 2027Announcedsourcechecked Oct 11, 2026
- February 20, 2027Announcedsourcechecked Oct 11, 2026
- January 16, 2027Announcedsourcechecked Oct 11, 2026
- December 19, 2026Announcedsourcechecked Oct 11, 2026
- November 14, 2026Announcedsourcechecked Oct 11, 2026
Date rule: One Saturday a month from April to March, plus one Friday in June
Once a month the Kusatsu Onsen Tourism Association sets out more than 1,200 clear cup candles on the steps of Kosen-ji, the temple above the Yubatake. The candlelight mixes with the steam rising off the hot-spring source below. In winter the steps light at 18:30, and the 2026/27 ski season brings nights on 19 December, 16 January, 20 February and 20 March.
The association warns that rain or wind can cancel a night, even after the candles are lit. Dress for the cold, because the steps stand in the open air on a winter night.
Worth knowing
- Come down to the Yubatake after dinner, since the lighting runs until 21:00.
- Check the association's page on the day, because weather can cancel the lighting.
Quick answers about Yubatake Candle Yume no Akariよくある質問
When is Yubatake Candle Yume no Akari?
Yubatake Candle Yume no Akari takes place one evening a month, usually a Saturday, on the stone steps of Kosen-ji above the Yubatake. The next dates we have are November 14, 2026, announced.
What are the opening hours of Yubatake Candle Yume no Akari?
Yubatake Candle Yume no Akari is open from October to April the candles burn from 18:30 to 21:00, and from May to September from 19:00 to 21:30. Rain or wind can cancel a night, even after the candles are lit.