Hundreds of tourists usually head over to Japan to see the famous Cherry Blossoms during Spring Season in the Land of the Rising Sun. But, it's not the only most sought-after event in the country. As summertime approaches, locals also look forward to one of Japan's most exciting yearly events and summer symbol — fireworks!
Originally, fireworks (花火, Hanabi) have been used in Japan to drive away evil spirits and not to celebrate the New Year (contrary to other local cultures). More than that, fireworks displays have been part of Japan's long history and have become an integral event each year during the summer holidays. Almost every weekend during the months of July or August, you can have the chance to witness amazing fireworks displays when you happen to be in Tokyo.
The major event that marks the beginning of fireworks festivals in Tokyo is held towards the end of July of each year. The Adachi Fireworks festival attracts about 600,000 people annually. Its origin dates back to the year 1924 and up to now, 12,000 rockets are estimated to be shot up from two locations in Arakawa River Banks. The Nish-Arai side is said to be the best spot to catch sight of these colorful displays.
One of the most recognized and oldest fireworks festivals in Japan is Tokyo's Sumidagawa or Sumida River Fireworks Festival. Happening on July 28th of this year, the evening sky will be brightly lit with thousands of fireworks launched along the Sumida River between Ryogoku and Asakusa. Loved by the People of Japan, this tradition can be traced back to 1732 when there was a famine in Japan's Kyushu Island. The fireworks have been launched as part of the festivals for the dead.
Below is the complete schedule and location of Fireworks Festivals in Tokyo:
40th Adachi Fireworks Festival
Date: July 21, 2018 (Saturday, 19:30 - 20:30)
Location: Arakawa River Banks
52nd Katsushika Fireworks Festival
Date: July 24, 2018 (Tuesday, 19:20 - 20:20)
Location: Edogawa River Banks (Shibamata Station)
41st Sumidagawa/Sumida Fireworks Festival
Date: July 28, 2018 (Saturday, 19:00 - 20:30)
Location: Sumida River
36th Koto Fireworks Festival
Date: August 1, 2018 (Wednesday, 19:30 - 20:30)
Location: Arakawa Sunamachi Mizube Park
34th Ichikawa Shimin Fireworks Festival
Date: August 4, 2018 (Saturday, 19:15 - 20:30)
Location: Edogawa River (Ichikawa Station)
59th Itabashi Fireworks Festival
Date: August 4, 2018 (Saturday, 19:00 - 20:30)
Location: Arakawa River Banks
43rd Edogawa Fireworks Festival
Date: August 4, 2018 (Saturday, 19:15 - 20:30)
Location: Edogawa River (Shinozaki Park)
Tokyo Fireworks Festival ~ECOMODE~
Date: August 11, 2018 (Saturday, 19:10 - 20:30)
Location: Odaiba Seaside Park
2018 Jingu Gaien Fireworks Festival
Date: August 19, 2018 (Sunday, 19:30 - 20:30)
Location: Meiji Jingu Gaien
How to Enjoy and Prepare for Tokyo's Fireworks Festivals
If you're visiting Japan this summer and hoping to catch one or more of the city's fireworks festivals, here are few things to keep in mind:
First, popular firework shows attract thousands of people so expect that the event will be overcrowded. While fireworks displays begin after sunset, people often show up in advance to reserve the best spots for viewing. It's difficult to get tickets on the same day, too.
Accommodation and transportation are of concern during this time. Make sure to book your hotels in advance and if possible, choose a hotel that's near to the venue. Hence, you won't have to endure riding on crowded buses and trains after the end of the show.
Likewise, make sure to bring picnic blankets, drinks and food, and long sleeves or cardigans if you'll be watching the show. Picnic blankets will keep your clothes clean while you seat on the ground. Long sleeves or cardigans will be useful should the weather gets colder at night. And, drinks and food will keep you company while you enjoy the show.
Of course, before you head over to catch one of Japan's best fireworks festivals, don't forget to take a walking tour in Tokyo and immerse yourself in their local culture. Discover the city's best-kept secrets, must-knows, and even important tips from a Japanese local. They're definitely willing to give you all the info you need to get the most out of your stay in Japan! So, join a free walking tour, visit the most popular attractions, and end your night with an amazing sight of fireworks in the sky!
Ronica is a content marketer and writer who loves books and photography. She likes to discover new dishes, places, and try a lot of things. She dreams of having her own business someday but her grandest dream is to travel the world.
Tokyo Localized provides visitors and travellers to Tokyo with a unique perspective of this great city, what makes us unique is that our tour guides live and work in Tokyo, have a passion for this city and love meeting and welcoming new faces. Find out more about our Unique Day and Night Tours of Tokyo - we can't wait to meet you!