Introduction
Summer in Japan is synonymous with hanabi taikai—fireworks festivals that light up the night skies with dazzling colors and spectacular displays.
Every year, millions of people dress in yukata, enjoy street food, and gather to watch these stunning shows.
If you’re visiting Japan in summer 2025, here are the best fireworks festivals you won’t want to miss!
1. Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Tokyo)
One of Japan’s oldest and most famous fireworks displays, the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival dates back to the Edo period.
Held along the Sumida River, it features around 20,000 fireworks and draws over a million spectators.
Date: July 26, 2025 (tentative)
2. Nagaoka Fireworks Festival (Niigata)
Known for its massive scale and emotional tributes, the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival showcases some of Japan’s largest fireworks, including the breathtaking “Phoenix” display.
Dates: August 2–3, 2025
3. Omagari Fireworks Competition (Akita)
This is not just a festival, but a national fireworks competition where top pyrotechnic artists from across Japan compete to impress the judges and audience.
Date: August 23, 2025
4. Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival (Hiroshima)
Set against the stunning backdrop of the floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, this festival features fireworks launched from the water, creating magical reflections.
Date: August 24, 2025 (tentative)
5. Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival (Shiga)
Held over Japan’s largest lake, the Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival launches over 10,000 fireworks, with spectacular water-based displays spreading across the wide sky.
Date: August 8, 2025 (tentative)
6. Edogawa Fireworks Festival (Tokyo)
A popular alternative to Sumida’s event, the Edogawa Fireworks Festival showcases synchronized fireworks and themed displays, making it a favorite among Tokyoites.
Date: Early August 2025 (exact date TBD)
7. Atami Sea Fireworks Festival (Shizuoka)
Unlike most festivals, Atami’s fireworks are held multiple times throughout summer by the ocean, offering a more relaxed and accessible way to enjoy fireworks by the beach.
Dates: Multiple dates from July to August 2025
8. Toyota Oiden Fireworks Festival (Aichi)
Featuring a unique combination of traditional festival dancing (Oiden Odori) and a grand fireworks show, Toyota City’s festival creates a lively and energetic atmosphere.
Date: Late July 2025
9. Katakai Fireworks Festival (Niigata)
Home to the world’s largest shell fireworks (Yonshakudama), Katakai’s festival features explosive displays that are truly jaw-dropping.
Dates: September 9–10, 2025
10. Fukuroi Enshu Fireworks Festival (Shizuoka)
This festival boasts large-scale synchronized fireworks, including dramatic starmines and musical displays, lighting up the Shizuoka night sky.
Date: August 10, 2025 (tentative)
Conclusion
Japanese fireworks festivals are more than just shows—they’re cultural events full of tradition, emotion, and artistry.
No matter which one you choose, experiencing a summer hanabi taikai will be an unforgettable highlight of your trip to Japan!
