One thing you shouldn’t miss out on about Japan in the summer season is the excitement and anticipation for the Tokyo fireworks festivals! July and August are the months of vibrant celebration in the heart of Japan’s capital, marked by a spectacular array of fireworks festivals that paint the night sky with a variety of colors and patterns. Making going to fireworks festivals one of the TOP 6 Things to Do in Tokyo for Obon (お盆).
Against the backdrop of Tokyo’s iconic skyline, these mesmerizing displays of firework artistry have become an annual tradition that draws locals and visitors to gather to spend time with either your loved ones: family, friends, or your partner. Let’s take a look at the Fireworks festivals Tokyo has to offer, where tradition meets innovation, and the sky becomes a canvas for the celebration of traditions!
Edogawa-ku Fireworks Festival
In 2023, a large-scale fireworks display took place in Edogawa-ku, Tokyo. The event showcased a total of eight distinct themes, each accompanied by background music that complements the visual experience.
As one of the long-awaited Tokyo Fireworks festivals, it would at least start with the traditional 5-second burst of 1,000 fireworks shots, and ending with a golden shower that illuminates the entire entire night sky. The captivating 75-minute showcase is certain to captivate and fascinate the visitors.
Date 2024 August 24th
Time 19:15~20:20
Venue Edogawa Riverbed (beyond Tokyo Metropolitan Shinozaki Park) 江戸川河川敷(都立篠崎公園先)
Website https://www.city.edogawa.tokyo.jp/hanabi/guide/index.html
Hachijojima Noryo Fireworks Festival
Get ready to be captivated by a mesmerizing fireworks display with the backdrop of Hachijojima scenery, located at the southernmost edge of Tokyo’s Izu archipelago.
Imagine the night sky transformed into a canvas, as fireworks burst in a breathtaking burst of color, painting both the sky and the ocean in a vibrant symphony of seven hues.
The venue will have a lively and festive atmosphere even before the fireworks start. In addition, the commemorative fireworks, which are broadcasted at the venue along with the anniversary messages and proposal messages, are unique to the event and are very popular.
Date 2024 August 16th
Time 08:11 PM ~ 09:30 PM
Venue Sokotsu Port (底土港)
Website https://www.hachijo.gr.jp/blogs/hanabi2024/
Itabashi Fireworks Festival
Tokyo’s Itabashi-ku and Saitama’s Toda-shi unite across the Arakawa River, launching a staggering 13,000 fireworks in sync.
Tokyo’s premier fireworks fest just got more spectacular with the “art ball,” the colossal “Shaku 5 cm ball,” and the astounding 700-meter “Great Niagara Falls.”
Don’t miss the captivating “Niagara in the Sky.” Since the launch site is close to the audience seats, the sound that echoes in your stomach is one of the real pleasures.
Date 2024 August 3rd
Time 19:00~20:30
Venue Itabashi-ku, Tokyo Arakawa Riverside
Website http://itabashihanabi.jp/
Okutama Noryo Fireworks Festival
Get ready for a breathtaking spectacle as fireworks burst forth from the majestic heights of Mt. Atago in Okutama, Tokyo. The fireworks that illuminate the mountains and create an exquisite contrast are a sight to behold. The Okuhikawa Shrine Festival is also held near Okutama Station.
Lion dances and portable shrines known as mikoshi will transport you into the heart of Okutama’s nature and culture. It’s a captivating journey that lets you soak in the very essence of this picturesque hometown.
Date 2024 August 10th
Alternative Date 2024 August 11th
Time 18:30~21:00
Venue Hikawa, Okutama-cho, Nishitama-gun, Tokyo
Website https://www.town.okutama.tokyo.jp/
Jingu Gaien Fireworks Display
This fireworks display will be held in Shinjuku, Tokyo. About 10,000 fireworks, including large and small star mines, are going to be launched into the night sky.
At Jingu Stadium, which is the main paid viewing venue, you can enjoy live performances by gorgeous guests along with the fireworks.
Date 2024 August 10th
Time 19:30~20:30
Venue Outer Garden of Meiji Jingu Shrine
Website https://www.jinguhanabi.com/about.html
Komae-Tamagawa Fireworks Festival
Brought to you by the Komae City Tourism Association, get ready for the highly anticipated comeback of the Komae-Tamagawa Fireworks Festival, marking its return after a four-year hiatus.
This mesmerizing extravaganza will light up the night sky above the Tama River, boasting an awe-inspiring array of approximately 5,000 fireworks.
For an exclusive thrill, premium seats positioned a mere 110 meters from the launch point promise an electrifying proximity to the explosive show, setting this festival in a league of its own.
Prepare to be entranced as the fireworks paint the river’s surface with an enchanting palette of colors, crafting a panoramic masterpiece that defies ordinary description.
The allure of the Komae-Tamagawa Fireworks Festival is heightened by its exceptional location, nestled at the crossroads of Komae City and the Tama Ward of Kawasaki City. Stretching along the serene expanse of the Tama River, the festival grounds span both riverbanks, catering to both premium ticket holders and the general public seeking open viewing spots.
Date 2024 August 9th
Time 19:30~20:20
Venue Outer Garden of Meiji Jingu Shrine
Website https://www.komae-kankou.jp/hanabi
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Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival
The Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival, known by its current name since 1978, has roots stretching back to 1732 during the Edo period. Originally called the “Ryogoku River Opening,” the festival began as a response to a devastating famine and epidemic, with the shogunate holding a Water God Festival to honor the deceased and seek relief from the epidemic.
Fireworks, first set off by restaurants near Ryogoku Bridge in 1733, became a key feature. The festival was halted in 1961 due to traffic issues but was revived under its new name on the Sumida River, with two launch sites enabling more spectators to enjoy the event. The Sumida River, historically referred to as the Okawa River, is a significant cultural site, as reflected in classical Rakugo performances.
Date 2024 July 27th
Time 19:00~20:30
Venue Sumidagawa River
Website https://www.sumidagawa-hanabi.com/
Adachi Fireworks Festival
The Adachi Fireworks Festival, held in late July, is the first major fireworks event in Tokyo/ Celebrating its 46th edition, the festival launches approximately 13,000 fireworks in just one hour, offering a dynamic show filled with various artistic firework concepts and synchronized music. The grand finale, featuring a breathtaking display of golden fireworks that illuminate the night sky like daylight, is particularly renowned. Given the festival’s popularity, early arrival is advised to secure a good viewing spot along the riverbank, and attendees should be prepared for crowded conditions at nearby stations post-event
Date 2024 July 20th
Time 19:20~20:20
Venue Arakawa River
Website https://www.adachikanko.net/en
Katsushika Fireworks Festival
The Adachi Fireworks Festival, held in late July, is the first major fireworks event in Tokyo/ Celebrating its 46th edition, the festival launches approximately 13,000 fireworks in just one hour, offering a dynamic show filled with various artistic firework concepts and synchronized music. The grand finale, featuring a breathtaking display of golden fireworks that illuminate the night sky like daylight, is particularly renowned. Given the festival’s popularity, early arrival is advised to secure a good viewing spot along the riverbank, and attendees should be prepared for crowded conditions at nearby stations post-event
Date 2024 July 23rd
Time 19:20~20:20
Venue Shibamata Shonen Baseball Field
Website https://www.city.katsushika.lg.jp/tourism/
Showa Kinen Park Fireworks Festival
The Tachikawa Festival Showa Memorial Park National Fireworks Festival has been held for more than 60 years since the first Tachikawa Summer Fireworks Festival was held on the Tamagawa River near Hinobashi Bridge in 1951, and has become a summer tradition in Tachikawa, not only for Tachikawa citizens. This fireworks festival is loved by many people living in the Tama area. Throughout its long history, there have been times when it has not been possible to hold the event due to weather or other reasons, but thanks to the cooperation of many people, the launch was made possible.
Date 2024 July 27th
Time 19:15~20:15
Venue Shibamata Shonen Baseball Field
Website https://hanabi.tokyo-tachikawa.org/
Koto Fireworks Festival
Akishima Citizen Whale Festival
Lake Kawaguchiko Fireworks Festival
Chofu City Fireworks Festival
Kita Fireworks Festival
Tamagawa Fireworks Festival
Narita Fireworks Festival
Tsuchiura All Japan Fireworks Competition
Sakura Citizen Fireworks Festival (Chiba)
Atami Fireworks Festival (Shizuoka)
These annual fireworks events not only showcase Japan’s deep-rooted cultural traditions but also symbolize the spirit of unity and togetherness that transcends boundaries. As we bid farewell to the Tokyo fireworks showcases, let us carry the vibrant energy and shared joy with us, fostering a connection with the core tradition of Japan!
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