Background

Ikazaki Kite Museum: A Celebration of Flight

Discover a world of kites at Ikazaki Kite Museum in Uchiko, Ehime: a vibrant display of cultural artistry and kite-flying traditions.

4.1

The Ikazaki Kite Museum in Uchiko, Ehime Prefecture, showcases a vibrant collection of kites from Japan and around the world. Highlighting the region's kite-flying heritage, the museum displays approximately 400 kites, from massive battle kites to delicate miniatures.

A brief summary to Ikazaki Kite Museum

  • Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit in May to witness the Ikazaki Kite Battle Festival, a thrilling display of kite-fighting skills.
  • Participate in a kite-making workshop to learn about the traditional techniques of Japanese kite construction.
  • Borrow a kite from the museum and enjoy flying it by the Oda River.
  • Explore the Ikazaki district, known for its Japanese paper production and other local handicrafts.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Ikazaki, the Kite Museum is easily accessible on foot. Head north, following signs for the Oda River. The museum is located near the riverbank, a short walk from the main street. Look for the distinctive building with kite decorations. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From JR Uchiko Station, take a local bus towards Ikazaki. Get off at the 'Ikazaki' bus stop. From there, it's a 5-minute walk to the Kite Museum. Follow the signs towards the Oda River. Bus fare is approximately ¥400.

  • Driving

    From the Uchiko Interchange on the Matsuyama Expressway, follow Route 56 towards Ikazaki. After entering Ikazaki, turn left towards the Oda River. The museum is located a short distance from the main road. Parking is available near the museum. Parking fees are around ¥300 per hour.

Unlock the Best of Ikazaki Kite Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Ikazaki Kite Museum

The Ikazaki Kite Museum is a unique cultural attraction in Uchiko, a town known for its traditional crafts and historic charm. The museum is dedicated to the art and history of kites, with a special emphasis on the 'fighting kites' (kenkadako) of Ikazaki. These kites are used in the Ikazaki Kite Battle Festival, a thrilling annual event dating back to the 17th century, where kites equipped with blades attempt to cut each other's strings. The museum's collection includes around 400 kites from various countries and regions. Visitors can admire the diversity of kite designs, ranging from enormous dragon kites stretching over 200 meters to tiny kites the size of a pea. Exhibits also feature Japanese kites with motifs of warriors and creatures, as well as international kites showcasing different cultural influences. One of the most impressive displays is the 'Dezei Kite,' a large kite used in the Ikazaki Grand Kite Battle, adorned with the names of local children. Beyond the exhibits, the Ikazaki Kite Museum offers hands-on experiences. Visitors can participate in kite-making workshops, learning about the traditional techniques of Japanese paper and bamboo construction. The museum also provides a free kite rental service, allowing visitors to fly kites on the banks of the nearby Oda River. The Ikazaki area itself is known for its arts and crafts, including Japanese paper production, making the museum a great starting point for exploring the local culture.

Popular Experiences near Ikazaki Kite Museum

Popular Hotels near Ikazaki Kite Museum

Select Currency