Held on the last Sunday of June every year, the Shakotan Soran Mikaku Festival coincides with the beginning of the official fishing season for Shakotan's famous sea urchin. At the festival, visitors can enjoy this local specialty alongside an abundance of fresh and grilled seafood caught in the local area. The Hamane Morning Market is a popular attraction every year and is a great opportunity to find fresh sea urchin from Shakotan. The soup made with shrimp and scallops is another fine example of the area's abundant seafood and features an exceptionally rich flavor. The festival brings together an array of the flavors of Shakotan, from fresh seafood such as live sea urchin, Japanese halibut and shrimp, to grilled dishes including squid, whelk and atka mackerel alongside chinmi (local delicacies) and products such as bottled sea urchin and kirikomi (salted fermented fish). Stage events include the performance of traditional songs with roots in the herring industry, Yosakoi Soran dancing, vocal performances and bingo. Come and experience Shakotan’s local culture!

During the Shakotan Fire Festival, the town fills with color as vibrant tairyo-bata (fishing flags) are flown from boats and mikoshi (portable shrines), floats and stalls pack into the streets. The event reaches its thrilling climax at night with the Tengu Fire Walk. Large crowds gather to see this fantastical event as the flames shine through the darkness. Pre-festival events are held on July 4th, with the main festival (including the Tengu and Mikoshi Fire Walks) on July 5th and 6th.