As if the annual Saga International Balloon Festa was not already popular enough – being the largest hot-air balloon event in the Asian region, in 2016, Saga will also play host to the World Hot Air Balloon Championships!

This will mark the third time that Saga has been chosen, with a history of smooth management of the event. They beat rival candidate cities Albuquerque (US) and Dubai (UAE) to win the honour for 2016. With over a million visitors expected over the duration of the event, this should be a valuable tourist and economic boon for Saga.

Check out the promotional video (in English) here: