Japan’s summer nights are brought to life by the dazzling spectacle of hanabi (fireworks). These festivals are more than just visual displays—they are cultural events steeped in tradition, community pride, and regional charm. From riverside shows in bustling Tokyo to artistic performances in Hokkaido’s Moerenuma Park, each festival offers a unique way to experience Japan’s seasonal magic. In this guide, we’ll cover the seven most famous fireworks festivals in Japan for 2025, complete with history, dates, access information, viewing tips, and nearby attractions to make your visit unforgettable.
- 1. Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Tokyo) / 隅田川花火大会
- 2. Nagaoka Fireworks Festival (Niigata) / 長岡まつり大花火大会
- 3. Omagari Fireworks (Akita) / 大曲の花火
- 4. Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival (Hiroshima) / 宮島水中花火大会
- 5. PL Art of Fireworks (Osaka) / 教祖祭PL花火芸術
- 6. Kanmon Strait Fireworks Festival (Yamaguchi/Fukuoka) / 関門海峡花火大会
- 7. Moerenuma Artistic Fireworks (Sapporo, Hokkaido) / モエレ沼芸術花火
- Final Thoughts: Experiencing Japan’s Summer Nights
1. Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Tokyo) / 隅田川花火大会
History & Cultural Significance
Dating back to 1733, the Sumida River Fireworks Festival is one of Tokyo’s most iconic summer events. Originally held to honor the dead and pray for an end to famine, the festival has evolved into a vibrant celebration attracting over a million spectators each year. It symbolizes the deep connection between the city’s history and its present-day festive spirit.
Event Details & Schedule
Date for 2025: July 26, 2025 (Saturday), 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM Fireworks Count: Approximately 20,000 The show is split into two main display areas along the Sumida River, offering different themes and styles for each segment.
How to Get There
Best accessed via Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line) or Kuramae Station (Toei Oedo Line). Expect heavy crowds and consider arriving at least 3–4 hours early for a good viewing spot.
Best Viewing Spots & Ticket Info
- Paid seating is available along the riverbanks via ticket lotteries.
- Popular free spots include Sumida Park and the Asakusa Riverside area.
Tips for International Visitors
- Arrive early and bring a picnic mat and drinks.
- Light summer wear (yukata is traditional) is recommended.
- Prepare for limited mobile phone reception due to large crowds.
Nearby Attractions & Food
Combine your visit with a stroll through Asakusa, home to Senso-ji Temple, and enjoy street food like yakitori or melonpan ice cream.
2. Nagaoka Fireworks Festival (Niigata) / 長岡まつり大花火大会
History & Cultural Significance
Held annually in memory of World War II victims and to promote peace, the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival began in 1946. It has grown into one of Japan’s most moving and spectacular displays, featuring the famous “Phoenix” firework symbolizing recovery and hope.
Event Details & Schedule
Dates for 2025: August 2–3, 2025, 7:20 PM – 9:10 PM Fireworks Count: Over 20,000 each night
How to Get There
From Tokyo, take the Joetsu Shinkansen to Nagaoka Station (about 2 hours), then walk 20 minutes to the viewing area.
Best Viewing Spots & Ticket Info
- Paid seating tickets are highly recommended and available through official channels in advance.
- Popular viewing areas include the Shinano River embankments.
Tips for International Visitors
- Book accommodations early, as hotels fill up months ahead.
- Bring insect repellent for riverbank seating.
Nearby Attractions & Food
Explore Nagaoka’s Yukyuzan Park or try local specialties like hegi soba and sake.
3. Omagari Fireworks (Akita) / 大曲の花火
History & Cultural Significance
Known as Japan’s “Fireworks Olympics,” Omagari has hosted competitions among the nation’s top pyrotechnicians since 1910. The daytime fireworks are particularly unique, creating colorful patterns against the bright sky.
Event Details & Schedule
Date for 2025: August 30, 2025, 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM Fireworks Count: Around 18,000
How to Get There
From Tokyo, take the Akita Shinkansen to Omagari Station (about 3.5 hours), then walk 30 minutes or take a shuttle bus.
Best Viewing Spots & Ticket Info
- Paid seats are mandatory for prime areas.
- Riverbank spots offer excellent views of both day and night fireworks.
Tips for International Visitors
- Bring layers, as northern Japan evenings can get chilly even in summer.
- Consider joining a guided tour for easier logistics.
Nearby Attractions & Food
Enjoy Akita’s famous kiritanpo and visit nearby Kakunodate Samurai District.
4. Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival (Hiroshima) / 宮島水中花火大会
History & Cultural Significance
Set against the backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage Itsukushima Shrine, this event features fireworks launched from the water, creating mirrored reflections that double the beauty.
Event Details & Schedule
Date for 2025: August 11, 2025, 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM Fireworks Count: Approximately 5,000
How to Get There
From Hiroshima Station, take a train to Miyajimaguchi (30 minutes), then a 10-minute ferry to Miyajima Island.
Best Viewing Spots & Ticket Info
- Paid seating available near the shrine area.
- Free spots include beaches and hillsides, but arrive early.
Tips for International Visitors
- Stay overnight on Miyajima to avoid return-trip congestion.
- Bring a tripod for stunning photography.
Nearby Attractions & Food
Explore the island’s hiking trails and enjoy Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.
5. PL Art of Fireworks (Osaka) / 教祖祭PL花火芸術
History & Cultural Significance
Organized by the Church of Perfect Liberty, this event is one of the largest in Japan, with a unique choreographed display blending fireworks and music.
Event Details & Schedule
Date for 2025: August 1, 2025, 8:00 PM – 8:40 PM Fireworks Count: Estimated 20,000
How to Get There
From Osaka City, take the Kintetsu Line to Tondabayashi Station, then shuttle buses or a 15-minute walk.
Best Viewing Spots & Ticket Info
- Paid seating is the best choice for comfort and visibility.
- Free viewing areas fill up by noon.
Tips for International Visitors
- Check weather forecasts; the event is rarely rescheduled.
- Bring water and sun protection for daytime queuing.
Nearby Attractions & Food
Visit Osaka’s food hubs like Dotonbori or try local kushikatsu.
6. Kanmon Strait Fireworks Festival (Yamaguchi/Fukuoka) / 関門海峡花火大会
History & Cultural Significance
This bi-prefectural event is staged on both sides of the Kanmon Strait, with synchronized displays from Shimonoseki (Yamaguchi) and Moji (Fukuoka).
Event Details & Schedule
Date for 2025: August 13, 2025, 7:50 PM – 8:40 PM Fireworks Count: 15,000 combined
How to Get There
Access from either Shimonoseki Station or Mojiko Station, both connected by JR lines.
Best Viewing Spots & Ticket Info
- Paid seating available on both shores.
- Free areas include parks along the strait.
Tips for International Visitors
- Consider booking on the Moji side for less crowding.
- Carry cash for food stalls.
Nearby Attractions & Food
Try fugu (blowfish) dishes in Shimonoseki or explore retro Moji Port.
7. Moerenuma Artistic Fireworks (Sapporo, Hokkaido) / モエレ沼芸術花火
History & Cultural Significance
Launched in 2012, the Moerenuma Artistic Fireworks are designed to harmonize with music, creating an immersive, choreographed performance in the park designed by sculptor Isamu Noguchi.
Event Details & Schedule
Date for 2025: September 6, 2025, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM Fireworks Count: About 13,000
How to Get There
From Sapporo Station, take the Toho Subway Line to Kanjo-dori-higashi, then a 25-minute bus to Moerenuma Park.
Best Viewing Spots & Ticket Info
- Paid seating only; tickets are available online in advance.
- Seating is arranged to maximize synchronization of fireworks and music.
Tips for International Visitors
- Dress warmly; Hokkaido evenings can be cool.
- Bring a camera capable of low-light photography.
Nearby Attractions & Food
Explore Sapporo’s beer museums or enjoy local seafood like uni and crab.
Final Thoughts: Experiencing Japan’s Summer Nights
Whether it’s the historic glow of Sumida River’s hanabi, the emotional Phoenix of Nagaoka, or the artistic choreography of Moerenuma, Japan’s fireworks festivals offer something for every traveler. Plan ahead, embrace the festive atmosphere, and you’ll carry home more than just photos—you’ll carry memories that sparkle as brightly as the night sky.
