Chichibu Yumoto Buko Onsen (Yokoze Town, Saitama Prefecture), operated by Onsen Doujou Co., Ltd. (Tokigawa Town, Hiki District, Saitama Prefecture; President & CEO Toshiki Yamasaki), will launch a special support event for the Chichibu Kawase Festival starting Saturday, July 11, 2026. This event is held in conjunction with the 'Chichibu Kawase Festival,' taking place on July 19 (Eve Festival) and July 20 (Main Festival). During the event period, the onsen will welcome guests with a Kawase Festival-themed video at the entrance, offer free ice candy to children upon entry, and sell a special soft cream inspired by the festival. ◎ Welcome Kawase Festival Video A video showcasing the Kawase Festival will be played at the main entrance of Buko Onsen to greet guests. Period: July 11 (Sat) – July 20 (Mon, Holiday), 2026 Time: 5:00 PM until closing ◎ Ice Candy Gift for Children One free ice candy will be given to each child (elementary school age or younger) upon entry. Period: July 11 (Sat) – July 20 (Mon, Holiday), 2026 ※ Children must be accompanied by a guardian to enter. ◎ Kawase Festival Limited-Edition Soft Cream A limited-edition soft cream inspired by the vibrant energy of children at the Kawase Festival will be available. Availability: July 11 (Sat) – July 20 (Mon, Holiday), 2026 Location: 1st-floor café area Price: 500 JPY (tax included) ◾️ Chichibu Kawase Festival The Chichibu Kawase Festival is the summer grand festival of Chichibu Shrine, the principal shrine of Chichibu City's Banba district. Also known as 'Gion,' the festival takes place on July 19 and 20, when eight floats—four hatokubo (littered floats) and four yatai (festival floats)—parade through the town accompanied by bold traditional music. While the winter Chichibu Yomatsuri is centered around adults, the summer Kawase Festival puts children in the spotlight. The festival reaches its climax with the 'Mikoshi Arai' (portable shrine washing), a ritual believed to wash away all misfortunes. https://na