Fukushima Travel – Summer Festival at Bandai Atami Onsen

From August 9–10, the charming hot spring town of Bandai Atami Onsen in Kōriyama City, Fukushima Prefecture, hosted the vibrant Ogi-hime Festival. This beloved summer event celebrates the legendary Princess Ogi and the blessings of the region’s abundant hot spring waters.

The festival began on August 9 with the Onsen Thanksgiving Ceremony at Yusen Shrine, where locals and visitors offered prayers of gratitude for the healing waters that have flowed here for centuries. Participants, dressed in traditional attire, performed sacred rituals that connect the community to its natural heritage and cultural roots.

🌸 The Legend of Princess Ogi

According to local folklore, Princess Ogi was a noblewoman from the ancient Heian period who traveled through the region. When she discovered the curative hot springs of what is now Bandai Atami Onsen, she dedicated herself to sharing their benefits with others. Her kindness, grace, and devotion to the people made her a beloved figure in the area, and she has since been enshrined as the guardian spirit of the hot springs. The Ogi-hime Festival honors her legacy, celebrating both her compassion and the life-giving waters she cherished.

🎉 Festival Highlights

Over two days, Bandai Atami Onsen came alive with colorful decorations, traditional music, and festive stalls. The streets filled with visitors enjoying local foods, live performances, and the warm hospitality for which Fukushima is famous. Lanterns illuminated the night, creating a magical atmosphere that perfectly complemented the soothing sound of flowing hot spring water.

For travelers planning a Fukushima tour or adding Tohoku travel to their Japan trip, the Ogi-hime Festival offers an unforgettable combination of culture, history, and relaxation. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the rejuvenating baths of Bandai Atami Onsen while immersing yourself in one of Fukushima’s treasured traditions.

📍 Location: Bandai Atami Onsen, Kōriyama City, Fukushima, Japan

📅 Dates: August 9–10, 2025

🎯 Best for: Cultural festivals, hot spring tours, summer travel in Fukushima

💡 Travel Tip: Pair your visit with nearby attractions such as Lake Inawashiro, Mount Bandai, or the historic Aizu region for a full Fukushima travel experience.

https://www.bandaiatami.or.jp/info/4240/