Fireworks festivals are a grand tradition in Japan, spanning over 300 years! It’s practically a summer ritual to attend at least one fireworks display, and if you’re in Tokyo this summer, consider yourself lucky because some of the most spectacular fireworks festivals take place right here. We’ve compiled a list of the best fireworks festivals in Tokyo, where you can experience the magic firsthand. For exact dates and details, check out the official websites.
Best Firework Festivals in Tokyo
Sumida River Fireworks
Every year, on the last Saturday in July, a fireworks display lights up Tokyo’s Sumida River. The fireworks, dating back to the 1733 “Ryogoku no Kawakai,” are steeped in meaning, symbolising memorial services and the warding off of evil spirits, while also paying homage to water gods. With over 20,000 launches and a staggering 900,000 attendees, it’s quite the spectacle. Prime viewing spots include Sumida Park, Tokyo Skytree, and Sensoji Temple, allowing you to enjoy both Tokyo’s iconic landmarks and the dazzling fireworks festivals in Tokyo on the same day!
Adachi Fireworks
Adachi Fireworks is an annual event held in Adachi Ward every July along the Arakawa Riverbed. Though its origins trace back to the Meiji era, commemorating the reconstruction of Senju Ohashi, the details remain somewhat mysterious. The venue offers free entry, with optimal viewing from either the north or south bank of the Arakawa. Additionally, there are paid reserved seats available through Ticket Pia each year.
Itabashi Fireworks
Itabashi’s fireworks display coincides with Toda City’s, across the Arakawa River. With 11,000 fireworks, including the breathtaking ‘Niagara Falls’ and a massive ‘star mine,’ it’s an evening filled with awe. The festival, held jointly with Toda-shi, Saitama Prefecture, lasts an hour and a half, offering both reserved and general seating.
Tachikawa Showa Kinen Park Firework Festival
The Tachikawa Showa Kinen Park Fireworks Extravaganza boasts 5,000 fireworks, drawing around 300,000 spectators. Admission to the park is free after 6:00 p.m., but arriving earlier ensures a better viewing spot. Notably, ten “Ootama” fireworks, reaching heights of 400 metres with a 380-metre circumference, will illuminate the sky!
Edogawa Firework Festival
The Edogawa Fireworks Festival, a tradition spanning over 40 years, showcases around 14,000 fireworks in a 75-minute performance at Toritsu Shinozaki Park. With eight acts and nearly 1,000 fireworks in the first five seconds alone, it’s a sight to behold. The festival offers views from both sides of the Edogawa River, while the Ichikawa City Nohryo Fireworks Festival on the Chiba side is free to watch, with reserved seating available until the day of the event.
Hachioji Firework Festival
At Hachioji Shimin Kyujo Ballpark in Fujimori Park, approximately 3,500 fireworks will dazzle spectators. Despite its smaller scale, the display promises a variety of explosions, including the impressive “starmine.” The ballpark offers limited seating, prompting many to watch from adjacent parks, shrines, and parking lots.
Odaiba Rainbow Fireworks
On the Arakawa River, a barge launches around 4,000 fireworks, providing a close-up experience for spectators just 150 metres away. The proximity adds intensity, and reflections on the river enhance the visual spectacle. Accessible via Minami-Sunamachi Station, this event offers a delightful experience for families amidst the charming backdrop of old Tokyo.
Tokyo Bay Firework Festival
Drawing over 600,000 tourists annually, the breathtaking festival features 12,000 fireworks illuminating the water, framed by Rainbow Bridge and Odaiba’s scenic night vistas. Noteworthy are the ten Grade 5-shakudama shell explosions and the 100 shakudama shell explosions. Even if you’re not at the venues, the fireworks over Tokyo Bay are visible from various locations, including Shiokaze Park in Shinagawa Ward, Ariake Bridge, Takeshiba Pier Park, and Shinagawa Pier Park.
Diving into Japan’s Spectacular Firework Festivals
What do you think about these mesmerising firework festivals in Japan? Are you itching to witness the sky ablaze with colours and lights firsthand? From the historical significance of the Sumida River display to the electrifying atmosphere of Adachi and the harmonious collaboration between Itabashi and Toda City, each festival offers a unique cultural experience.
Whether you’re marvelling at the explosive extravaganza at Tachikawa Showa Kinen Park or immersing yourself in the time-honoured tradition of the Edogawa Fireworks Festival, there’s something truly enchanting about witnessing the night sky come alive. But remember, to make the most of these dazzling spectacles, it’s essential to arrive early and secure a prime viewing spot, especially for the crowd favourites.
So, as you plan your adventures in Japan, carve out some time to indulge in this beautiful Japanese tradition. Here’s hoping you’ll have the chance to bask in the splendour of these captivating firework festivals and create unforgettable memories during your time in Japan.
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