🎆 Fireworks Festivals You Won’t Want to Miss in Japan This Summer (2025)

Fireworks—The Icon of Summer in Japan

It’s not just the dazzling bursts of light in the night sky that make fireworks festivals so magical—the excitement of the crowd and the cultural atmosphere are all part of the experience. Donning a yukata, strolling through rows of food stalls offering takoyaki, yakisoba, and shaved ice—this is what summer in Japan is all about. Many festivals also feature traditional performances and local music events, letting you soak in the unique spirit of a Japanese summer celebration.

Around 946 fireworks festivals are scheduled to take place across Japan this year, with the peak season running from late July to mid-August.

From grand-scale spectacles to charming local displays rooted in regional history and culture, Japan offers countless fireworks events worth experiencing. Here’s our curated list of must-see festivals to enjoy this summer!

Top Fireworks Festivals in the Kanto Region

Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Sumida City, Tokyo)

• 📅 Date: Saturday, July 26, 2025 | 19:00–20:30

• 🎇 Fireworks Launched: Approx. 20,000

• 🏞 Location：(Venue 1)Between Sakura Bridge and Kototoi Bridge, and (Venue 2) between Komagata Bridge and Umaya Bridge

• 💡 This long-standing festival dates back to the Edo period, offering a breathtaking fusion of fireworks and Tokyo’s glittering city skyline.

• Plenty of food stalls add to the fun, letting you enjoy the nostalgic charm of Tokyo’s old downtown vibe.

• 🔗 Official Website：Sumida River Fireworks Festival

Edogawa Fireworks Festival (Edogawa City, Tokyo)

• 📅 Date: Saturday, August 2, 2025 | 19:15–20:20

• 🎇 Fireworks Launched: Approx. 14,000

• 🏞 Location: Edogawa Riverbed (near Tokyo Metropolitan Shinozaki Park)

• 💡  Famous for its explosive opening, launching 1,000 fireworks in just five seconds! Held jointly with Ichikawa City in Chiba, this show delivers an unforgettable impact.

• 🔗 Official Website: Edogawa Fireworks Festival Official Site

Itabashi Fireworks Festival (Itabashi City, Tokyo)

• 📅 Date: Sunday, August 3, 2025

• 🎇 Fireworks Launched: Approx. 12,000

• 🏞 Location: Arakawa Riverbed

• 💡 Don’t miss the highlight—Japan’s largest “Niagara Falls” fireworks display! Held in tandem with the Todabashi Fireworks Festival, you can enjoy the show from both sides of the river.

• 🔗 Official Website: Itabashi Fireworks Festival Official Site

Makuhari Beach Fireworks Festa (Chiba City, Chiba Prefecture)

• 📅 Date: Saturday, July 27, 2025

• 🎇 Fireworks Launched: Approx. 20,000

• 🏖 Location: Makuhari Seaside Park (Makuhari Beach)

• 💡 Set against the ocean backdrop, this beachside show features wide-scale fireworks displays and a stunning synchronized performance with music—an absolute must-see.

• 🔗 Official Website: Makuhari Beach Fireworks Festa Official Site

Takasaki Grand Fireworks Festival (Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture)

• 📅 Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025 | 19:30–20:20

• 🎇 Fireworks Launched: Approx. 15,000

• 🏞 Location: Karasugawa Riverbed (upstream of Wada Bridge)

• 💡 A vibrant blend of traditional festival floats, mikoshi (portable shrines), and fireworks creates an energetic atmosphere unique to Takasaki.

• 🔗 Official Website: Takasaki Grand Fireworks Festival Official Site

Must-See Fireworks Festivals Across Japan

Nagaoka Festival Grand Fireworks Show (Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture)

• 📅 Dates: Saturday & Sunday, August 2–3, 2025 | 19:20–21:10

• 🎇 Fireworks Launched: Approx. 20,000

• 🏞 Location: Shinano Riverbed

• 💡 One of Japan’s top three fireworks festivals, known for its spectacular “Miracle Starmine” that stretches nearly 2 kilometers across the sky.

• 🔗 Official Website: Nagaoka Festival Grand Fireworks Show Official Site

Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival (Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture)

• 📅 Date: Friday, August 8, 2025 | 19:30–20:30

• 🎇 Fireworks Launched: Approx. 10,000

• 🏞 Location: Offshore area around Otsu Port, Lake Biwa

• 💡 A dreamy display where waterborne fireworks reflect beautifully across the lake’s surface, creating a romantic and magical atmosphere.

• 🔗 Official Website: Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival Official Site

Ōmagari Fireworks (Daisen City, Akita Prefecture)

• 📅 Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025 | 17:10 (Daytime) / 18:50–21:30 (Evening)

• 🎇 Fireworks Launched: Approx. 18,000

•  🏞 Location: Banks of the Omono River

• 💡 The festival features a two-part program with daytime fireworks and an evening competition, where top pyrotechnicians from across Japan compete in a showcase of artistic mastery.

• 🔗 Official Website: Ōmagari Fireworks Official Site

Kanmon Strait Fireworks Festival (Fukuoka & Yamaguchi Prefectures)

• 📅 Date: Wednesday, August 13, 2025 | 20:00–20:30

• 🎇 Fireworks Launched: Approx. 15,000

• 🏞 Location: Both sides of the Kanmon Strait (Moji & Shimonoseki)

• 💡 A spectacular joint event between two prefectures, featuring massive fireworks and dramatic musical synchronizations across the sea channel.

• 🔗 Official Website: Kanmon Strait Fireworks Festival Official Site

Tips for Enjoying Fireworks Festivals

• Arrive Early

Crowds can reach into the hundreds of thousands, depending on the festival. To snag a good viewing spot, arriving well in advance is essential!

• Enjoy the Festival Food

Sample classic summer treats like takoyaki, yakisoba, and kakigori (shaved ice) from the many food stalls lining the venue.

• Consider Reserved Seats or Tour Packages

Many festivals offer paid seating areas with chairs—perfect for avoiding crowds and enjoying the show comfortably and safely.

• Check the Weather & Transportation Info

Some events may be postponed due to rain, and road closures are common. Use public transport and check for the latest updates before heading out.

• What to Bring

Don’t forget insect repellent, drinks, a leisure sheet, and a light jacket for the evening.

• Stay Cool!

To prevent heatstroke, bring cooling items like a chilly towel, portable fan, or parasol.

Need ideas? Check out our guide: “Survive the Japanese Summer! Payke Staff Reviews Cool & Refreshing Items”

Summary

Fireworks festivals in Japan are more than just a visual spectacle—they’re a cultural experience that embodies the spirit of summer. With colorful yukata, festive food stalls, and traditional local events, each festival is a vibrant celebration centered around fireworks.

Many places offer yukata rentals, so why not immerse yourself in the full summer festival experience and enjoy this beloved Japanese seasonal tradition?