Hanabi (Fireworks) - An indispensable part of Japanese summer

One thing about Japan is that the country absolutely loves, and is extremely proud of its fireworks. Therefore, in this article, GoEMON will give you a brief introduction to Hanabi - fireworks in Japan, as well as some of the most well-known firework festivals that you can attend during the summer here! 

1. About fireworks festivals in Japan 

Every year, during the summer holidays from around the beginning of July to the end of August, the entirety of Japan becomes so much more lively and vibrant for the preparation of firework shows and festivals. These shows range in terms of scale and popularity, with the most famous ones able to attract hundreds of thousands of spectators. 

Those coming to fireworks shows in Japan, most of the time aren't there just for the fireworks themself, but also to participate in the festivals that usually accompany them. Many people would be dressed in Yukata, enjoying the festive atmosphere while strolling through the crowded streets lined with food and game stalls. 

2. Brief history

Firework festivals have a long history in Japan. The first firework display dated way back to 1733 as a part of a memorial service for the victims who have passed away due to famine caused by crop failures and a cholera epidemic. This was the beginning of how fireworks held such cultural significance in Japanese culture and became an indispensable part of the summer here. 

3. Some of the most famous fireworks festivals in Japan 

• The 45th Adachi Fireworks Festival 2023 - 足立の花火【足立区】: Held on July 22 in Adachi 

• The 57th Katsushika Noryo Fireworks Festival 2023 - 葛飾納涼花火大会【葛飾区】: Held on July 22 in Katsushika for the first time after the pandemic 

• The Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival 2023 - 隅田川花火大会2023【墨田区】: Held on July 29 by the Sumida River near Asakusa, Tokyo

• Tachikawa Festival Showa Kinen Park Fireworks 2023 - 立川まつり国営昭和記念公園花火大会【立川市】: Held on July 29 in the famous Tachikawa Park

4. Tips and things to keep in mind 

Popular fireworks festivals tend to be very crowded, which may lead to several concerns for visitors. Here are several things that you should keep in mind before going to a fireworks festival in Japan: 

1. The competition for good viewing spots can get really intense. People would often show up hours beforehand to snatch the best spots. There are fireworks shows where paid seats are available, but it may be difficult to get one for those not fluent in Japanese or not physically in Japan. 
2. Big festivals can attract up to hundreds of thousands of people, which can make it challenging to find accommodations. Make sure to book your accommodation early on or look for help from travel agents!
3. Getting around in general and using public transportation can also be challenging as well, especially right after the end of the festivals and shows. Traffic congestion is unavoidable, and trains and buses tend to be packed with people. 
4. Even though the festival usually starts during the evening, it might still get very stuffy from all the people gathering in one place. If possible, try to bring a fan or something to cool yourself with! 

Hanabi Taikai - Firework Festival, is of much cultural significance in Japan. The Japanese love their fireworks, and in total, there are hundreds of fireworks festivals held annually here. GoEMON hopes that our introduction to Fireworks in Japanese summer has been of use to you in learning more about the culture here, as well as where to go this summer! 

Have you ever attended any fireworks festivals in Japan? Feel free to share your experience in the comment section down below! 

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