Tokyo's iconic fireworks festivals are back! After a long pause, these bright and colourful shows are set to light up the skies again in 2023, adding that spark to your Tokyo summer you've been longing for. Here's everything you need to know.
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Advice on attending a fireworks display
Arrive Early: Firework displays in Japan are incredibly popular, and the best viewing spots can fill up quickly. It's a good idea to get to your chosen location a few hours in advance to secure a prime spot.
Prepare for the Crowds: The fireworks draw large crowds, so be prepared for heavy pedestrian traffic, especially after the event when everyone is leaving at the same time. Patience and understanding will make the experience much more enjoyable.
Stay Hydrated: The fireworks are in the summer, which can be hot and humid in Japan. Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration. Bring your own water bottle or buy drinks at local convenience stores.
Embrace the Tradition: Many people enjoy wearing Yukata, traditional summer clothing, to these events. It adds a wonderful atmosphere and authenticity to the experience. However, comfort is essential, so wear what feels best for you.
Consider Facilities: Be aware that public facilities such as bathrooms may be extremely busy. Try to use the restroom before the event starts. Portable toilets are often available, but lines can be long.
Bring a Picnic: Many families and groups bring picnic blankets and food to enjoy while they wait for the fireworks. However, remember to clean up after yourself to maintain the cleanliness of the location.
Bring some insect repellent: Many of the best viewing areas for the firework display are by waterways like rivers and mosquitoes are out and about at this time of year.
Respect Local Customs and Regulations: Follow any specific rules or guidelines set by the event organisers. These might include restrictions on alcohol consumption, noise, or lighting personal fireworks.
Prepare for the Weather: While summer days can be hot, the evenings can sometimes be cool. Also, rain can be a factor. Check the weather forecast in advance and bring appropriate clothing or rain gear if necessary.
Have a Plan B: Sometimes fireworks may be postponed or cancelled due to bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Always have a backup plan in case this happens.
Enjoy the Moment: Finally, don't forget to enjoy the moment. Fireworks festivals in Japan are a spectacular sight that many people look forward to all year. Immerse yourself in the experience.
Firework displays in Tokyo
1. Adachi Fireworks Festival
First major firework display in Tokyo for the season
Date: July 22 (Sat) 19:20-20:30
Fireworks: 13,500 Displayed
Location: Arakawa River Area
Access: 15-minute walk from Kitasenju Station (JR Line and Tokyo Metro)
More info: Here
2. Jingu Stadium Swallows Fireworks
Exciting fireworks during the 5th inning of games
Date: From July 22 to August 25
Fireworks: 300 Displayed per game
Location: Jingu Stadium
Access: Various stations (JR Sobu Line, Tokyo Metro Line, Toei Oedo Line)
More info: Here
3. Kastsushika Nouryo Fireworks
A renewed, more exciting festival after 4 years with a significant increase in fireworks
Date: July 25 (Tue) 19:20-20:30
Fireworks: 20,000 Displayed
Location: Katsushika Shibamata Baseball Field
Access: Short walks from Shibamata Station (Keisei Line) and Shinshibamata Station (Hokuso Line)
More info: Here
4. Sumida River Fireworks Festival
One of Tokyo’s largest fireworks shows, a must-see for summer in Tokyo
Date: July 29 (Sat) 19:00
Fireworks: 20,000 Displayed
Location: Sumida River
Access: Short walks from Asakusa Station
More info: Here
5. Tachikawa Showa Kinen Park Fireworks
A beloved summer tradition in Tachikawa for over 60 years
Date: July 29 (Sat) 19:00-20:00
Fireworks: 5,000 Displayed
Location: National Showa Memorial Park
Access: 15-minute walk from Tachikawa Station (JR Chuo Line)
More info: Here
6. Hachioji Fireworks
A part of the Hachioji Festival, viewed from a beautiful baseball stadium
Date: July 29 (Sat) 19:00-20:10
Location: ThreeBond Stadium Hachioji
Access: 15-minute walk from Yamada Station (Keio Takao Line) or by bus from JR Hachioji Station or JR Nishi-Hachioji Station
More info: Here
7. Edogawa Fireworks Festival
First festival in 4 years, with one of the highest number of fireworks in Japan
Date: August 5 (Sat) 19:15-20:30
Fireworks: 14,000 Displayed
Location: Edogawa River Area
Access: 15-minute walk from Shinozaki Station (Toei Shinjuku Line)
More info: Here
8. Komae Tamagawa Fireworks Festival
The oldest fireworks display at the Tama River with a longest history
Date: August 9 (Wed) 19:30-20:20
Fireworks: 5,000 Displayed
Location: Komae-shi Tamagawa Ryokuchi Park
Access: 5-minute walk from Izumi-Tamagawa Station (Odawara Line)
Firework display outside of Tokyo
1. Omagari National Fireworks Competition
Description: A competitive firework festival, attracting the best pyrotechnicians from all over Japan.
Date: August 31, 2023
Display: Around 18,000 fireworks
Location: Omagari City, Akita Prefecture
Action: Book tickets in advance for the best viewing areas.
More information: Omagari National Fireworks Official Website
2. Nagaoka Fireworks Festival
Description: One of the most popular firework festivals in Japan with a two-day display, featuring the "Phoenix" fireworks.
Date: August 2-3, 2023
Display: Over 20,000 fireworks
Location: Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture
Action: Check official website for exact timings and location.
More information: Nagaoka Fireworks Official Website
3. Suwa Lake Fireworks Festival
Description: Known for the "Water Starmine" display, where fireworks are launched from the lake.
Date: Mid-August 2023
Display: 40,000 fireworks
Location: Suwa Lake, Nagano Prefecture
Action: Try to secure a spot near the lake for the best experience.
More information: Suwa Lake Fireworks Official Website
4. PL Art of Fireworks
Description: Organized by the Church of Perfect Liberty, it is considered the largest firework display in the world.
Date: August 1, 2023
Display: Over 120,000 fireworks
Location: Tondabayashi, Osaka
Action: Bring earplugs as the sound can be overwhelming.
More information: PL Art of Fireworks Official Website
5. Tenjin Matsuri Fireworks
Description: Fireworks are a part of the larger Tenjin Matsuri festival, known for its boat procession.
Date: July 25, 2023
Display: 4,000 fireworks
Location: Okawa River, Osaka
Action: Try to catch both the boat procession and fireworks.
More information: Tenjin Matsuri Fireworks Official Website
More firework displays will be added as they are announced. See our travel Facebook group for other Japanese festivals.
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