This Summer, Go All Out in Karatsu: Beach, Music, Fireworks – An Over-the-Top Day Awaits! Beach Event 'Grand Blue 2026' Returns with WASHIO Reina (Former E-girls) and RYUTA MINE's Banana Boat Experience

Grand Blue 2026

The Grand Blue Executive Committee will host the beach event 'Grand Blue 2026 (Grand Blue Ni-Maru-Ni-Roku)' on Sunday, July 19, at Castle Bay (Nishi-no-hama) to leverage Karatsu and Genkai’s natural assets, enhance regional value through marine activities, revitalize Karatsu, and increase awareness and visitor numbers to Nishi-no-hama.

About the Beach Event 'Grand Blue 2026'

'Grand Blue 2026' will feature marine activity experiences, live performances by multiple artists, food truck vendors, fireworks, and more. This year’s event includes a live performance by WASHIO Reina, a Karatsu native and former member of E-girls, as well as a special banana boat experience led by fellow Karatsu native and top boat racer RYUTA MINE.

The main visual is an original illustration by ABEchan, a Karatsu-born illustrator from Saga Prefecture known for her pop yet nostalgic style. The first 10,000 attendees will receive a special fan featuring ABEchan’s artwork.

We invite you and your family and friends to join us for this one-day-only beach event.

Event Date and Time July 19, 2026 (Sunday), 14:00 to 21:00

Location Nishi-no-hama (890-9 Nishihama-machi, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture)

Event Highlights ① Marine Activity Experiences (parasailing, SUP, BIG SUP, sea kayaking, etc.) ② Live performances and bubble shows by renowned artists ③ BBQ and food truck vendors ④ Photogenic spots and more

※ Marine activity experiences and BBQ require prior reservation and are paid.

Please apply via the event’s official website.

Admission Fee Free (some activities and experiences are paid)

Parking Saga Prefectural Karatsu General Government Building [Paid] Karatsu City Water Purification Center [Paid] Karatsu City Health Support Center Sante [Free]

Access

15-minute walk from JR Nishi-Karatsu Station 15-minute walk from Karatsu Bus Center Approx. 60 minutes by car from JR Saga Station or Tenjin Station

※ Please use the 'Saga Prefectural Karatsu General Government Building' as your landmark.

※ Due to expected congestion, we recommend using public transportation.

Timetable

Diverse Marine Activity Experiences – Fully Enjoy Karatsu’s Seaside

Popular marine activities like SUP, sea kayaking, and banana boats are joined this year by parasailing, making the lineup stronger than ever. Experience the refreshing seaside atmosphere and feel summer in your entire body.

※ Prior online reservation via the official website is required for all marine activities except the marine obstacle course.

① SUP: Glide freely across the water by paddling on a large, buoyant board. ② BIG SUP: A team-based activity where participants paddle together on a large, stable board. ③ Sea Kayak: A kayak designed for sea use. Paddle on both sides to enjoy tranquility and exhilaration. ④ Banana Boat: A popular activity where a banana-shaped boat is towed by a jet ski, speeding across the sea. ⑤ Parasailing (NEW): Soar gently above the sea on a parachute pulled by a boat. Experience an extraordinary 'walk in the sky' without getting wet. ⑥ Marine Obstacle Course (NEW): A giant floating playground on the sea, enjoyable for both adults and children. (Registration on-site)

Details of Marine Activity Experiences Experience Fees:

①–④: ¥2,000 (tax included) ⑤: ¥10,000 (tax included) ⑥: ¥500 (tax included)

Experience Duration: ①–③: 30 minutes ④: 15 minutes ⑤: 2 hours (flight time approx. 10 minutes) ⑥: approx. 3 minutes

Guidelines for Activity Participation

To ensure all guests can enjoy the activities safely, please note the following:

・Please wear clothing suitable for physical activity that can get wet.

※ We recommend bringing a change of clothes and a towel.

・SUP, BIG SUP, sea kayaking (for 2+ people), and banana boat are open to elementary school students and above.

・Sea kayaking requires a minimum of two participants.

・Participants who are intoxicated or pregnant are not permitted.

※ Further details will be updated on the official website.

Diverse LIVE Performances by DJs, Dancers, and Artists

Enjoy vibrant live performances by DJs, dancers, and artists active in Fukuoka and Saga. The event will be further energized by a live performance from Karatsu native WASHIO Reina and a special banana boat experience led by top boat racer RYUTA MINE, combining music and the sea.

WASHIO Reina (Washio Reina)

Former vocalist of Flower and E-girls, WASHIO launched her solo career in 2020. Her transparent, emotionally resonant voice captivates audiences. She has performed live in Osaka, Tokyo, and beyond, and appeared on the popular series THE FIRST TAKE. In 2024, she left LDH JAPAN to become independent. In addition to her music career, she has launched her own apparel brand, 'Luamoda', and continues to expand her activities.

MINE Ryuta (Mine Ryuta)

A boat racer from Karatsu City, MINE has won numerous titles including Grand Prix championships and the highest win rate, establishing himself as a leading figure in boat racing. Known for his dazzling star power and thrilling race style, he enjoys immense popularity among fans.

team bub. (Team Babu)

Japan’s first group to turn 'night bubbles' into entertainment, team bub. delivers stunningly photogenic bubble shows. With over 10 million TikTok views and nationwide tours, these skilled performers create a dreamlike world of 1 million soap bubbles enveloped in light and music—an experience that instantly captivates.

KANO Erena

A singer-songwriter from Karatsu, Saga Prefecture, KANO is a passionate anime fan influenced by numerous anime works. Her unique lyrical perspective has produced hits like 'Koisuru Jibakurei' and 'Daiji ni Shite Morae yo'. She has also performed theme songs for anime such as 'Yotogibanashi' (OP for 'Kyokou Suiri Season 2') and 'Irodori' (OP for 'Yoru no Kurage wa Oyogenai'). Her colorful, evolving voice mesmerizes audiences. In 2026, she will be appointed Karatsu Tourism Ambassador, reflecting her deep love for her hometown.

LUA

A singer-songwriter and guitarist from Karatsu, Saga Prefecture. Performing under the theme of 'mixture pop,' LUA combines a gender-neutral high-pitched voice with catchy, distinctive songs. She has appeared on TBS’s music program 'PLAYLIST' and various music festivals, earning high praise from renowned artists like Suga Shikao and Kawatani Gen. She will perform live at the 2025 Saga Prefectural Office year-end ceremony.