Hanabi - Japan’s 18 Best Fireworks Festivals Happening in Summer 2024
“Hanabi” or Japanese fireworks are one of the biggest features of summer in Japan. Japan's fireworks festivals paint the skies of summer in vivid colors and pack a different punch every year. There are so many fireworks festivals in Japan that it can be difficult to choose which one to see. With that, here is a list of Japan’s 18 best fireworks festivals, as well as the meaning of hanabi, their history, and details on the features and dates of each festival!
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Meaning of Hanabi
The word “hanabi” (花火) is formed by the Japanese “kanji” characters for “flower” and “fire”. Literally meaning “fire flowers”, the term evokes the color and shape of this Japanese summer spectacle. Events showcasing Japan’s fireworks are called “hanabi taikai” (花火大会) which refers to fireworks festivals.
Through time, the sight of hanabi has become associated with a sense of freshness and attending a fireworks festival is considered a way to cool off during Japan’s extremely hot and humid summer months. Thus, hanabi have become a beloved summer tradition in Japan!
Their relevance goes beyond their sheer beauty. Fire has long been considered sacred in Japan, and has been an essential part of prayers and rituals. It is thought that this is why hanabi were once used to ward off evil spirits and are also associated with the wish of comforting the souls of the dead, praying for peace, and expressing gratitude to the ancestors.
For their splendor and transience, admiring hanabi at a fireworks festival is also often compared to another Japanese tradition: “hanami” cherry blossom viewing.
History of Hanabi
According to the records, the shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa was the first Japanese person to witness fireworks when Chinese merchants presented him with fireworks and set them off in Nagasaki in 1613. Soon, hanabi became popular among the feudal lords as well, who enjoyed fireworks viewing as a pastime.
Ieyasu had his retainers bring fireworks technology back to his hometown, Mikawa (present-day eastern Aichi Prefecture) which was the only area permitted by the shogunate to manufacture and store gunpowder in the Edo periodo (1603 - 1868). This led to the development of the fireworks industry in the area which is still famous today for its firework production.
Actual fireworks festivals for the common people began much later in 1733 when, by the order of the eight shogun Yoshimune Tokugawa, fireworks were set off at the Ryogoku River Opening Ceremony, the Ryogoku Kawabiraki, to pray for the souls of those who died from famine and epidemics and ward off other disasters.
Eventually, a fireworks festival came to be held every year on “kawabiraki no hi”, the first day of the boating season, a tradition that led to the modern-day Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival, one of Japan’s most famous hanabi taikai.
What Makes Japan’s Fireworks Different?
Although the culture of enjoying fireworks is not exclusive to Japan, hanabi’s profound significance set them apart from other types of pyrotechnic displays and while overseas they are mostly seen on New Year’s Eve, in Japan they are undoubtedly a symbol of summer with hundreds of festivals held every year across the country.
Japan’s fireworks festivals also come with an array of other traditions, such as the custom of wearing or renting a “yukata” (a summer traditional garment similar to kimono) to go to the festival and savoring different festival foods while watching the fireworks. The festival atmosphere, with the streets lined with food vendors and game stalls, contribute to the charm of Japanese summer!
The refinement of a firework is judged by three elements. If it bursts at the moment it reaches its highest point, if it explodes to the maximum expected diameter, if all the stars inside the firework light up in the same instant and all go dark at the same time as well. Japanese fireworks artisans have been carefully studying and refining these three for centuries, achieving exquisite delicacy and rich artistry.
According to the Japan Pyrotechnics Association, one of the main differences between overseas fireworks and Japan’s fireworks is the shape.
Traditionally, overseas fireworks shells are cylindrical and packed with cylindrical stars that are ignited in order following a fixed direction. While they are not perfectly spherical and symmetrical when they burst, they are mainly known for their unusual patterns such as those that burst multiple times in the air.
On the other hand, Japanese fireworks shells are spherical and packed with spherical stars, meaning they explode into large, perfect spheres, appearing symmetrical from all angles. Every star inside the firework also changes color midway through with two or three cores layered concentrically creating beautiful effects.
Types of Fireworks in Japan
Japanese fireworks can be broadly divided into three types: "warimono" (breakable fireworks), "hanwarimono" (half-breakable fireworks), and "pokamono" (popping fireworks).
Warimono refers to the round fireworks most commonly seen at fireworks festivals, where the shell explodes and the stars inside scatter in a spherical shape. Among the warimono, those that leave a trail as the stars spread are called "kiku" (chrysanthemum), which are probably the most famous type of hanabi, and those that spread out without leaving a trail are called "botan" (peony).
Pokamono have fireworks shells that are launched into the sky and split open into two with a "pop" sound as the stars burst out while falling down, allowing spectators to enjoy various light effects and shapes.
In hanwarimono fireworks, large firework shells are used to pack many small fireworks which explode all at the same time.
How to Enjoy Japan Fireworks Festivals
Firework festivals in Japan typically start after sunset and last one to two hours. Venues are going to be extremely crowded and festival goers tend to show up and reserve the best viewing spots hours in advance by placing picnic tarps with their name on, so make sure to arrive well ahead of the starting time if you want to secure a good spot. Many of Japan’s firework festivals offer paid seating but tickets normally have to be reserved beforehand.
As stations near the venue are also usually congested, we recommend you charge your IC card or buy your train ticket in advance. Keep in mind that the area surrounding the venue might have traffic restrictions, so sometimes taking the taxi is not an option. A solution might be to book a hotel not far from the fireworks festival and while cities such as Tokyo or Osaka have enough accommodation options, smaller cities usually get booked out months ahead.
Another option is to make a reservation at restaurants facing the venue or dine on a “yakatabune” Japanese pleasure boat while marveling at the hanabi.
Japan Fireworks Festivals Happening in June
Yokohama Port Opening Festival (Kanagawa)
Celebrating when Yokohama port first opened in 1859, this festival features a wide range of events showcasing the beauty and culture of Yokohama such as live music and street dance performances and the chance to board some of the historical ships docked at the port.
One of the main events is the fireworks festival which displays 3,000 fireworks in tune with music and mesmerizing light effects. As the event takes place at Rinko Park in the Minato Mirai area of Yokohama, the colorful hanabi shot over the sea against the modern backdrop of Yokohama and reflected on the surface of the water will take your breath away! You can admire the hanabi for free from Minato Mirai and Sakuragicho areas but Hammerhead No. 9 Wharf, Rinko Park’s stage, and the National Great Hall’s terrace are for ticket holders only.
Stay in Yokohama and Enjoy the Yokohama Port Opening Festival Fireworks
Sakihana Onsen Water Fireworks Display (Niigata)
Located in Niigata, Sakihana Onsen is a gorgeous hot spring village blessed with cherry blossoms, tulip fields, and the fresh waters of the Agano River. Lined with traditional inns, the remote Sakihana Onsen offers the chance to refresh yourself in nature while enjoying activities like bathing in the village’s mystical emerald green hot springs that are said to beautify the skin or dining on the “kawadoko” raised wooden deck by the river.
A highlight is the Sakihana Onsen Water Fireworks Display when fireworks set off from boats on the Agano River, illuminating the surface of the water for an unforgettable summer sight. The fireworks festival is always held on the third Friday of June, so make sure to book your stay well in advance.
Stay in Sakihana Onsen and Enjoy the Sakihana Onsen Water Fireworks Display
Kyoto Art Fireworks (Kyoto)
This 60-minute-long fireworks festival boasts 13,500 fireworks made by Japan's best fireworks makers. Set in sync with popular songs, the show combines traditional fireworks, cutting-edge music, and a performance choreographed as a story, so it is truly a bewitching spectacle to watch! The highlight of the Kyoto Art Fireworks are the hanabi launched using lanes which creates an enchanting three-dimensional effect. The venue is also packed with food stalls, while music and video displays create a lively atmosphere even before the beginning of the actual fireworks show.
All seats are reserved, so you need to secure your ticket beforehand through the advance lottery or the general sale from the official Kyoto Art Fireworks website.
Stay in Kyoto and Enjoy the Kyoto Art Fireworks
Yokohama Sparkling Twilight (Kanagawa)
These gorgeous hanabi only last for around 5 minutes but the awe-inspiring backdrop of Yokohama Port and Minato Mirai illuminated by the colors of the fireworks is a sight to behold. Furthermore, the event is completely free! As the firework display is held from late spring to early autumn visitors to Yokohama have multiple chances to catch a glimpse of this night-time marvel.
The hanabi are set off from Osanbashi Pier or/and Shinko Pier, depending on the date, so a great vantage point to admire them is Yamashita Park.
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Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Tokyo)
Held in the traditional neighborhood of Asakusa in Tokyo, the Sumida River Fireworks Festival is the oldest out of all the fireworks festivals in Japan. Visited by nearly 950,000 spectators annually, it is so ingrained in the minds of people in Tokyo that they usually say there’s no other fireworks festival like the one by Sumida River. The secret behind this festival’s popularity is the dynamic atmosphere that is created by a whopping 20,000 fireworks that are launched in the middle of the city. At Venue 1, there is a competition among expert fireworks craftsmen.
It is a major fireworks festival, so it probably need not be said that there are countless food stalls too. To make your experience complete, try different street food while marveling at the fireworks.
Stay in Asakusa and Enjoy the Sumida River Firework
Katsushika Noryo Fireworks Festival
If you are someone who wants to experience that old-fashioned atmosphere, then you should definitely check out the Katsushika Noryo Fireworks Festival. The fireworks at Katsushika, which is filled with a retro vibe, offers an attractive display of fireworks that will make you feel a certain kind of nostalgia about the past.
This festival is characterized by fireworks launched at close range that no other fireworks festival can beat. Close to 700,000 spectators make their way to this festival each year in a bid to feel the realistic sensation created by the 13,000 fireworks shot into the air.
Adachi Fireworks (Tokyo)
Adachi Fireworks Festival is known for being an action-packed event that lets you marvel at 13,000 fireworks launched into the air for about an hour! About 700,000 spectators await this major fireworks festival, which is held on the banks of Arakawa River in Adachi each year, so that they can catch a glimpse of the gorgeous fusion of the night sky lit up in fireworks and the flowing water of the river.
The highlights of the Adachi Fireworks are the "W Niagara", "Starmine" and "Climax" fireworks. The W Niagara really looks like a spray of water in Niagara, while the powerful Starmine always leaves spectators in awe. As for the Climax, the fireworks are rhythmically launched into the sky to loud music. The finale is an exciting part of the program that will give you goosebumps, so it's a great place to go for a thrilling outing!
Tenjin Festival Fireworks Display (Osaka)
Held every year on July 24 and July 25 since the 10th century, Tenjin Festival is considered one of Japan’s top matsuri. On the first day of the Tenjin Matsuri, visitors can witness ancient rituals and prayers for Osaka's safety and prosperity at Osaka Tenmangu Shrine. The second day of the festival features a massive procession with floats and “mikoshi” portable shrines, along with characters in costumes and a variety of traditional dancers led by drummers in red hats.
The highlight of the Tenjin Festival is the evening boat parade, during which the mikoshi are transported on the river in illuminated boats. The parade ends with a grand finale and showcases the festival boats adorned with lanterns, other decorations, and even bonfires floating up and down the Okawa River while 3,000 magnificent fireworks are launched over the water, attracting 1.3 million people every year.
Stay in Osaka and Enjoy the Tenjin Festival Fireworks Display
Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko Opening Fireworks Festival (Yamanashi)
To celebrate the start of Mt. Fuji climbing season, a magical 20-minute fireworks show is held every year at the beginning of July. About 3,000 fireworks are launched over Lake Kawaguchiko, with Mt. Fuji’s serene figure as their backdrop!
Japan Fireworks Festivals Happening in August
Omagari National Fireworks Competition (Akita)
With a history of over 100 years, Akita’s Omagari National Fireworks Competition is a fireworks festival like nothing else you’ve ever seen. In Omagari, hanabi boast some of Japan’s top traditions, creativity, and most advanced techniques as every year the country’s most skilled fireworks makers compete for the position of Japan’s number one pyrotechnician. The competition is so influential that the prizes are awarded by the Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry.
The hanabi in Omagari attract 600,000 spectators each year eager to witness the spectacular fireworks display which uses around 18,000 fireworks, making it one of Japan's Three Great Fireworks Festivals. Tickets are required to access the area closest to the launch site, with different types of viewing seats available. In addition to the summer Omagari National Fireworks Competition, Omagari also holds fireworks festivals in spring, autumn, and winter with different themes for each season, allowing visitors to enjoy the charm of fireworks throughout the year.
Stay in Omagari and Enjoy the Omagari National Fireworks Competition
Itabashi Fireworks Festival
The Itabashi Fireworks Festival is held simultaneously across Toda City in Saitama and Arakawa in Tokyo. At the event, spectators are treated to luxurious displays created by 12,000 fireworks. One of the highlights of this event are the artistic balls made by fireworks craftsmen who have racked up impressive track records in fireworks competitions throughout the country. Every year, people look forward to the artistic fireworks that will be launched in the sky to create a 10-minute masterpiece. You will also be unable to take your eyes off of the four Goshakudama fireworks that are said to be the biggest fireworks in Tokyo.
The biggest feature of the Itabashi Fireworks Festival is the “Great Niagara Falls”. Spectators from all over Japan flock to this festival just to see this fireworks display that stretches 700m, making it the biggest in the Kanto region. The festival finishes off with a wide starmine that is also called “Niagara in the Sky”. Unlike the usual starmines out there, this starmine in Itabashi is said to fill the entire horizon.
Jingu Gaien Fireworks Festival
The Jingu Gaien Fireworks Festival is particularly exciting because the fireworks are launched with a backdrop of live performances by top artists, drawing crowds well over a million people each year. Tickets for the paid seating area sell out really fast, so make sure to gather information about the event as soon as you can!
There are many stalls and booths at the Jingu Gaien Fireworks Festival. It's recommended that you head over to Meiji Park, where there are plenty of food stalls, to buy everything you need before the fireworks start. There are stands along the walkway from Gaienmae Station to Jingu Stadium, too, and you can enjoy them on your way to the venue.
Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival (Osaka)
Started in 1989 by a local committee, this beloved fireworks festival has become a staple of Osaka’s summer, gaining recognition nationwide. The festival is held on the first Saturday of August and visited by around 500,000 people every year. The 60-minute fireworks show features different segments with different themes during which famous fireworks makers, including some that have received the Prime Minister's Award, launch original fireworks created specifically for this event. You’ll be awed with the creativity of this massive fireworks display that decorates the dark summer sky.
There are two free viewing areas: one on the riverside between Juso Station and Nishinakajima Minamigata Station and one on the riverside between Himejima Station and Tsukamoto Station. If you want to be sure of a spectacular view, there are also reserved seats, some even complete with a bento picnic box and drinks.
Ichikawa Shimin Noryo Fireworks Festival
At the Ichikawa Shimin Noryo Fireworks Festival, around 14,000 fireworks are launched into the air during a 45-minute program. There are two venues for this event - the Ichikawa Venue and the Gyotoku Venue - and the views are different at both locations. The Ichikawa Venue is especially recommended since it is located near the launch site of the fireworks, giving you a chance to fully enjoy the thrilling fireworks while if you want to quietly enjoy the fireworks from afar, then you might want to head to the Gyotoku Venue.
The highlight of the Ichikawa Shimin Noryo Fireworks Festival is the fireworks in the opening program. Starmines launched for 5 seconds from 10 spots using 1,000 fireworks create a truly gorgeous masterpiece that you can enjoy!
Nagaoka Festival Grand Fireworks Show (Niigata)
Held along the Shinano River near Ote Bridge, Nagaoka Fireworks Festival is considered one of Japan’s three biggest fireworks festivals with as many as a million people watching it every year. The fireworks last for a couple of hours and feature many large-scale displays of different types such as the “Niagara” firework, a golden waterfall crowned by colorful bursts of light, or the colorful “Grand Super Vesuvius” reminiscent of the shape of the famous Italian volcano.
The festival is also a symbol of resilience. It originally began as a way to honor victims and revitalize the city after the devastating Bombing of Nagaoka on August 1, 1945. Decades later, the Phoenix fireworks were launched to bring cheer after the catastrophic 2004 Chuetsu Earthquake and represent to this day one of the the highlights and most emotional displays of the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival. Filling a two kilometer space with their golden light and timed perfectly with music, the Phoenix fireworks are a mesmerizing sight. It’s not possible to access or get close to the venue without a ticket as the festival is extremely popular make sure to secure yours in advance!
Stay in Nagaoka and Enjoy the Nagaoka Festival Grand Fireworks Show
Koto Fireworks Festival
The Koto Fireworks Festival is famous for its powerful and large fireworks display, with around 4,000 fireworks launched into the sky. Its venue, the Arakawa Sunamachi Mizube Park, is an area with vast riverbanks, so you can spread a mat and leisurely watch the fireworks show. It attracts nearly 300,000 visitors every year, so it would be best to secure a spot early.
There are stalls and booths around Minami-Sunamachi Station, so you should buy whatever you need before the program starts. You will find rows of booths offering staple festival food items, such as cotton candy, yakisoba (fried noodles), and shaved ice. It is also recommended to watch the fireworks display from a yakatabune. If you get on this boat, you will see fireworks reflected on the surface of the water, and it is truly beautiful. The view from a distance that is nearer than when you are in the actual venue is too beautiful for words!
Miyazu Toro Nagashi Fireworks Display (Kyoto)
Visitors can see this spectacular hanabi in Miyazu, located in Northern Kyoto Prefecture. The fireworks were added in 1924 but the festival has a history of 400 years and was originally held to commemorate and see off the spirits of the deceased as part of the Obon celebrations by floating paper lanterns out in the sea.
Every year on the 16 of August, 10,000 lanterns flow into Miyazu Bay and about 3,000 fireworks are launched into the sky, creating a fantastic atmosphere that never fails to capture the visitors’ hearts. “Shorobune” ceremonial boats adorned with lanterns and flower-shaped decorations which are believed to transport the spirits of the deceased, are also sent off into the sea and set on fire. After the fireworks festival, a “bon odori” dance festival finishes off the night!
Visitors can buy lanterns on the day of the festival and even take part in boat tours to see the festival from the surface of water.
Stay in Miyazu and Enjoy Miyazu Toro Nagashi Fireworks Display
Lake Kawaguchiko Kojo Festival
With around 100 years of history, Lake Kawaguchiko Kojo Festival is one of the largest fireworks festivals held at the foot of Mt Fuji. 10,000 fireworks launched from the middle of the lake between the eastern shore and Kawaguchiko Bridge, including gigantic starmines in tune with music for a total of 55 minutes of hanabi that splendidly decorate the summer night sky and the surface of the lake. Around Oike Park and Komagari Tunnel, visitors can also enjoy a variety of food stands and game stalls.
Find a spot along Funatsuhama or Hirahama shores near Oike Park to admire an up-close view of the fireworks or head to Nagasaki Park or Oishi Park for an uninterrupted panorama of the fireworks festival together with Mt Fuji.
Stay in Kawaguchiko and Enjoy Lake Kawaguchiko Kojo Festival
The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.
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