A Summer-Exclusive Romance｜Complete Guide to Japanese Fireworks Festivals (2025 Edition)
When it comes to summer in Japan, aside from festivals, yukata, and shaved ice, there's one more absolute must-see romantic event—the Hanabi Taikai (Fireworks Festival). The moment the night sky is lit up with dazzling fireworks, the whole city seems to be swept into a joyful summer celebration.
1. Origins of the Fireworks Festival
Japan’s fireworks festivals date back to the Edo period in 1733, when the "Water Deity Festival" (Suijin Matsuri) was held along the Sumida River. Fireworks were launched to soothe the people’s hearts and ward off plagues. This event gradually evolved into today’s much-loved summer spectacle—the fireworks festival.
Though fireworks were once banned during parts of the Edo period, the people’s love for them never faded. Now, from July to September each year, fireworks festivals with unique local flair are held all across Japan. Crowds in yukata, waving uchiwa fans, gather amid the scent of takoyaki and the sound of goldfish-scooping games to await the grand moment when the fireworks bloom in the sky.
2. Must-See Events｜Japan’s Top 3 Fireworks Festivals
These “Top 3 Fireworks Festivals” are renowned for their scale, history, and professionalism, and are called "summer spectacles to see at least once in a lifetime.”
■ Ōmagari Fireworks Festival | Daisen City, Akita Prefecture
📅 August 30, 2025 (Sat)
🕔 17:10–18:00 (Daytime Fireworks), 18:50–21:30 (Night Fireworks)
📍 Along the Omono River, Daisen City, Akita
Japan's only national-level fireworks competition, combining both artistic and technical excellence. Top pyrotechnicians from all over the country gather to showcase their skills. The rare "daytime fireworks" create colorful smoke patterns before nightfall, while the finale features a massive, wide-format, rapid-fire musical display—unmissable for photographers and firework enthusiasts alike.
■ Tsuchiura National Fireworks Competition | Tsuchiura City, Ibaraki Prefecture
📅 November 1, 2025 (Sat) (Postponed to Nov 8 if weather is bad)
🕔 17:30–20:00
📍 Along the Sakura River near Gakuen Bridge
As the oldest competitive fireworks festival in Japan, the Tsuchiura Fireworks Festival is one of the rare large-scale events held in autumn. However, due to its fame as one of the Three Great Fireworks Festivals of Japan, it is introduced here as a reference.
This high-profile autumn fireworks spectacle is renowned for its three main competition categories: the gigantic “10-shaku dama” shells, the artistic “creative fireworks”, and the breathtaking “rapid-fire barrages.” Especially noteworthy are the fireworks that synchronize with musical rhythms—hundreds of shells are launched in succession, lighting up the night sky and creating a visually stunning symphony.
■ Nagaoka Grand Fireworks Festival | Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture
📅 August 2–3, 2025
🕔 19:20–21:10
📍 Along the Shinano River, Nagaoka City, Niigata代表性的“正三尺玉
Famous for its emotional impact and rhythmic beauty. The iconic “San-shaku dama” explodes to a diameter of 650 meters, while the “Phoenix” segment stretches across two kilometers of riverbank—an awe-inspiring display. (Note: due to safety regulations, the number of “San-shaku dama” fireworks may vary by year.)
3. Popular Fireworks Festivals in Tokyo and Surroundings
■ Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Tokyo: Sumida/Taito Wards)
📅 July 26, 2025 (Sat)
🕖 19:00–20:30
Over 20,000 fireworks brighten Tokyo’s skies at one of Japan’s oldest and most famous displays. There are two viewing areas; early arrival is advised to secure a good spot.
■ Jingu Gaien Fireworks Festival (Shibuya/Shinjuku)
📅 August 16, 2025 (Sat)
🕖 19:30–20:30
A rare “urban-style” fireworks event, combining pyrotechnics with live performances. Perfect for young people and couples looking for a festival concert atmosphere.
■ Kamakura Fireworks Festival (Kanagawa Prefecture)
📅 July 18, 2025 (Fri) (Cancelled for 2025)
🕖 19:20–20:10
Famous for underwater fireworks and seaside setting. Although cancelled this year, it’s worth looking forward to next year for a full romantic experience.
4. Unmissable Dreamy Skies in Kansai
■ Kobe Port Fireworks Festival (Hyogo)
📅 October 20–24, 2025 (Daily)
🕕 18:30–18:45
Five-night limited event featuring synchronized musical fireworks set against Kobe Port’s iconic skyline. Though each show lasts just 15 minutes, the close-up view makes it a deeply immersive experience.
■ Tenjin Festival Fireworks (Osaka)
📅 July 25, 2025
🕖 19:30–21:00
One of Japan’s Three Great Festivals, alongside Kyoto’s Gion and Tokyo’s Kanda. The fireworks finale features sacred boats lit by lanterns cruising the Okawa River, accompanied by 3,000 fireworks illuminating Osaka’s night sky with grandeur and grace.
■ Senshu Dream Fireworks in Sennan (Sennan City, Osaka)
📅 August 23, 2025 (Sat)
🕖 19:15–20:15
Held at the scenic Sennan Rinku Park near Kansai Airport, this beachside festival offers food trucks, street performers, traditional dancing, and summer markets. Fireworks crafted by artisans and modern tech light up the “Top 100 Sunsets of Japan” coast. Reserved seats available for a comfortable viewing.
■ Biwako Grand Fireworks Festival (Shiga Prefecture)
📅 August 8, 2025
🕖 19:30–20:30
One of Kansai’s largest, drawing 300,000 visitors. Around 10,000 fireworks launch from two lakefront sites, with large “2-shaku” shells, underwater fireworks, and fountains over the lake blending water and light into a spectacular symphony.
Tips for Enjoying Fireworks Festivals
• Check the official websites for the latest schedules, access info, and ticket/reservation details.
• Arrive at least 2 hours early, especially for large events.
• Pack smart: foldable mat, mosquito repellent, drinks, snacks.
• After the finale, wait out the crowd before leaving to avoid congestion.
• For photos, bring a tripod and telephoto lens, and follow venue rules.
As the final firework gently fades from the sky, its echo lingers in the heart. Though brief, these moments become eternal memories—a shimmering chapter of summer, and an unforgettable highlight of your journey. If you’re seeking your own slice of summer magic in Japan, start with a fireworks festival.