The Taketa Bamboo Lantern Festival (Chikuraku) covers the historic castle town with thousands of glowing bamboo lanterns. The atmosphere is breathtaking, and your family photos will look incredible.
But let’s be honest — a family visit comes with “beautiful moments” and “why-did-I-do-this” moments. Here’s the full reality, based on actual experience.
✨ Highlights
- Stone walls + bamboo lanterns create stunning night views.
- Designs vary by area — hearts, patterns, circles, and Instagram-friendly spots.
- Kids love the glowing lantern installations.
- Cool autumn air makes evening walks comfortable.
👨👧 Real Parent Notes (with a toddler, elementary, and teen)
- Toddler: mostly carried. Slopes + stone paths are tough.
- Elementary kids: stay motivated if you let them take photos.
- Teens: act bored at first, then suddenly get into it when photos look cool.
Bring a baby carrier, light bags, and drinks. Glow accessories help prevent kids from disappearing into the dark crowds.
😂 Honest Parent Fails (Yes, all real)
1. Bringing a stroller = instant regret
- The stroller got stuck on stone pavement and tipped over twice.
- Slopes made it tilt dangerously.
- The crowds made it impossible to push.
- In the end: carrying the toddler + lifting the stroller = accidental workout.
Verdict: No strollers. Only baby carriers.
2. We skipped the shuttle bus line → walked in the dark → regretted everything
The line for the shuttle bus was ridiculously long, so we thought, “Walking will be faster.” That was a terrible choice.
- The road was much darker than expected.
- The kids got scared.
- Some areas had zero streetlights.
Nighttime countryside roads are not for walking. Wait for the bus.
3. Trains are ideal… except the timetable doesn’t match the event
In theory, trains are the easiest way. No traffic, and you can walk from Taketa Station.
But the reality:
- Night train frequency does not match the festival hours.
- If the schedule doesn’t align with your child’s rhythm, it’s stressful.
🚃 Best train schedule (realistic version)
Outbound: Oita Station → Takeda Station
Leave in the 16:00 hour, arrive before 18:00.
Return: Takeda Station → Oita Station
Depart in the 19:00 hour, arrive around 21:00.
This timeframe works best, but:
- Trains will likely be crowded.
- Your kids may not get a seat.
Recommended: Take the limited express with reserved seats if available. Fast, seated, and peaceful — but note that it may not run exactly at the best times every year.
4. Plenty of food stalls, but slightly pricey
- Lots of choices, so you won’t go hungry.
- Slightly expensive.
- Lines can be long, and younger kids lose patience fast.
Best approach: Eat a little beforehand, then buy small extras at the event.
🕓 Event Information (Typical)
- Date: Mid-November
- Time: Evening to night
- Location: Taketa Castle Town
- Admission: Free (parking varies by year)
*As of Nov 2025. Always check the official website for updates.*
🚗 Access & Parking
By Car
- Temporary parking lots available.
- Shuttle buses operate in most years.
- The walk from parking areas can be very dark — avoid walking with kids.
By Train
- Taketa Station is within walking distance.
- But trains often don’t align well with the festival schedule.
- Reserved-seat limited express is the safest choice for families.
📸 Photo Tips
- Use your phone’s night mode.
- Place kids in front of lanterns to avoid dark faces.
- Take bursts — crowds open up only for a moment.
⚠️ Downsides (and how to fix them)
Cons
- Strollers are impossible.
- Slopes + stone paths.
- Dark roads.
- Shuttle bus crowds.
- Trains don’t match the schedule.
Fixes
- Use a baby carrier.
- Arrive early.
- Give kids glow accessories.
- Start from flatter routes.
- Wear sneakers.
🧭 Final Thoughts
This festival is beautiful, memorable, and absolutely worth it. But with kids, your experience depends on preparation. Avoid our mistakes, plan your route, and you’ll enjoy an unforgettable autumn night with your family.
