Something strange is stirring in the trees above Tenjin. From Nov 6, 2026, to Jan 31, 2027, the Step Garden at ACROS Fukuoka becomes a glowing forest of curious creatures. Kobito Forest 2026 celebrates the 20th anniversary of the popular children’s book series KOBITOS, turning the climb from street level to rooftop into an after-dark adventure.
Created by Toshitaka Nabata, KOBITOS introduces a world of peculiar little creatures called kobito that are neither insects nor plants. Familiar characters such as Kakuremomojiri, Little Hanagashira and Hotokeakabane appear as illuminated figures, with 46 varieties to spot, twice last year’s number. They are joined by regional kobito said to inhabit different parts of Kyushu.
Explore a Forest of Light
The route winds through the Step Garden, the terraced greenery that climbs the outside of ACROS Fukuoka. Kakuremomojiri and Sumomonouchi greet visitors at the entrance, while a glowing 4-meter-long panel marks the route up the stairs toward the rooftop.
In the fourth-floor Disco Area, giant kobito balloons set the scene for a silhouette quiz played to the rhythm of “Kobito Beat.” Kyushu’s regional kobito gather in the rooftop Palace Area, while the Fish Area combines light with the sound of flowing water to create a dreamlike atmosphere.
There is a hunt for hidden kobito illuminations, too. Visitors can pick up an activity sheet at the entrance and join the search to receive a special 20th-anniversary sticker. Participation is free.
Exclusive Goods, an Author Signing and a Photo Contest
Near the exit, the shop stocks KOBITOS books and merchandise alongside items available only at the venue. Among them are glow-in-the-dark umbrella markers in 5 designs, priced at ¥700 each.
Online ticket buyers and weekday visitors receive specially designed stickers, with a different design for each offer.
On Dec 27, series creator Toshitaka Nabata will hold a signing session, adding illustrations to his autographs. Visitors receive 1 entry in a drawing for every ¥1,000 spent on books and merchandise at the venue, with 50 applicants selected to attend.
• Signing sessions: Dec 27, 2026 (Sun), from 12:30 and 15:00
• Entry period: Nov 6–Dec 6, 2026
• Participation: 50 people selected by drawing
Photo Contest
In the Instagram photo contest, 3 winners will each receive an assortment of KOBITOS merchandise. The contest is open to residents of Japan with public Instagram accounts. Entrants must follow @acros_illumination and post their own photo of the kobito illuminations at the venue, using both #アクロス福岡こびとの森2026 and #こびとづかん.
• Entry period: Nov 6, 2026–Jan 31, 2027
Trees, stairways and rooftop spaces give the walk a sense of discovery at every level. A glowing kobito tucked out of sight, a silhouette to puzzle over, a pause for a photo: the pleasure is in exploring. For children and adults alike, a familiar corner of Tenjin takes on a playful new life after dark.
Photos from 2025 / 写真は2025年撮影
ACROS Fukuoka Illumination: Kobito Forest 2026
- Dates: Nov 6, 2026 (Fri)–Jan 31, 2027 (Sun)
- Time: 18:00–22:00 (last admission 21:30)
- Open daily throughout the event; held in rain, canceled in severe weather
- At-the-door admission: Junior high school students and older ¥1,800; children age 3 through elementary school ¥1,000; children age 2 and under free
- Venue: ACROS Fukuoka Step Garden
- Address: 1-1-1 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
- Official website