The castle town of Kofu was once a hub for scholars, artists and Kabuki actors travelling from Edo (present-day Tokyo) during the cultural flourishing of Japan during the Edo period, and became known as the “Little Edo” for its metropolitan-like hustle and bustle.

The “Little Edo” Kofu Summer Festival takes place every year in Maizuru Castle Park and the surrounding areas just off the station, recreating the life of the former bustling castle town. Many people come to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at night when the park is magically lit up by paper lanterns and a spectacular fireworks display lights up the sky for the festival’s finale.