Kashima — On the evening of 27th July, the Etomo Fishing Port in Kashima-chō, a seaside district of Matsue City, came alive with the annual fireworks festival. At 8:00 p.m., the opening shots lit up the dusky sky, signalling that the event would proceed as planned. Locals gathered eagerly along the shore known as Nada, a beloved vantage point for viewing the display.
The event, a cherished local tradition, marks the spirit of summer in the region. Despite rising living costs nationwide, the festival went off without a hitch—a heartening achievement for this once-thriving port town, now facing the realities of depopulation and economic transformation.
Etomo and the neighbouring Koura fishing hamlet, where the fireworks were launched, may have grown quiet in recent decades. But that night, the harbour buzzed with life once more. The lighthouse shone proudly, echoing memories of Etomo’s golden days.
How to get to Koura
From Matsue Station to Etomo by bus:
Take the Ichibata Bus to Etomo From Matsue Station.
The bus fare is approximately 640 yen.
The journey takes about 40 minutes.
Walk from the Etomo bus stop to Furuura Beach.
It takes about 15 minutes to walk from Etomo Bus Station to Koura Beach.
Notes:
It is recommended that the bus timetable and operation be checked in advance.
More information can also be obtained at the Matsue Tourist Information Centre at the south exit of Matsue Station.