Hanabi Festival Dates, What to Expect & Attractions to Explore!
Hanabi, which means ‘fireworks’ in Japanese, is a summer staple in Japan and an integral part of Japanese culture. The tradition of Hanabi festivals began as a way to honour the spirits and pray for health, reflecting their deep cultural significance within the community.
Despite being a summer tradition, many Japanese fireworks festivals continue to be held from August onwards, extending into the fall, with some even happening daily.
If you fear the scorching summer heat but still want to catch some of these fireworks shows, check out this curated guide to some of the most exciting fireworks festivals happening in Japan soon! We'll cover the dates of each festival, what to expect, and nearby attractions to explore ensuring a memorable trip.
Fireworks Festivals Near Tokyo
Credit: Tokyo Gov Facebook
The Kanto region, home to Tokyo, is a hotspot for some of Japan’s most vibrant fireworks festivals like the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival in Asakusa that takes place in July.
The tradition of fireworks festivals in the Kanto region dates back to the Edo Period, reflecting the historical significance and cultural heritage of the area. While the skies above Tokyo are lit up in peak summer, the end of the season doesn’t mark the end of the excitement of these firework festivals!
Keep your eyes peeled for the Tone River Fireworks Festival and the Atami Fireworks Festival for an unforgettable experience against the backdrop of Japan’s beautiful landscapes.
1. Tone River Fireworks Festival
Celebrating its 38th year, the Tone River Fireworks Festival, held at Sakai Riverside Park along the Tonegawa River, one of the longest rivers in Japan, is a spectacle not to be missed.
The Tone River Fireworks Festival offers more than a visual feast, as you enjoy the light show, get surrounded by the atmosphere of a Japanese festival with food and game stalls around the area. So catch the show on 13 September 2025 and prepare to be astounded by a grand display of 30,000 fireworks choreographed to music!
Getting There
If you're heading in from Tokyo by train, switch trains at Utsunomiya before dropping off at Koga station. From there, hop on a bus ride of approximately 1-hour for the nearest access to the Sakai Riverside Park!
Other Activities around the Area
You can also make the most of your short trip to Ibaraki by combining some of its popular attractions! Other than the Tone River Fireworks festival, visit Hitachi Seaside Park, famous for its fields of nemophila and kochia or experience horseback riding at Mount Tsukaba while marvelling at the mountains!
For more activities around the area, Klook provides a comprehensive selection of tours and experiences, ensuring you make the most of your visit to Ibaraki Prefecture!
Hotels Near the Festival
Traveling back after the festival can be quite troublesome due to the large crowds, limited late-night transportation options, and remote festival location. Consider staying overnight at one of these hotels located conveniently near the subway station and festival!
2. Atami Sea Fireworks Festival
Credit: Atami Tourism Bureau of Japan
The Atami Sea Fireworks Display is a year-round spectacle spanning across all seasons. This Japanese festival has been held annually since 1952 to mark the reconstruction of Atami after the occurrence of natural disasters. The festival also features special events on New Year's Eve, adding to its cultural significance.
The popular tourist attraction takes place at Atami Sun Beach, its scenic setting creating a truly mesmerising experience for the night! In the summer, the night sky is illuminated on 5th, 8, 18, and 25 August 2025.
If you’re planning to visit in Autumn or Winter, be sure to mark your calendars on these dates: 15 and 23 September, 13 October, 3 and 24 November, and 7 and 19 December 2025!
For those seeking the optimal place to view the fireworks display, Klook also offers a boat-viewing experience, providing a fantastic view for the show!
Getting There
Located 36-min away via Shinkansen from Shinagawa (located in Tokyo) station, Atami is the ideal weekend getaway. To get to Atami Sun Beach, take the Shinkansen from Shinagawa to Atami station and it is about a short 15-minute walk to the beach!
Other Activities around the Area
Beyond the fireworks, Atami boasts a wealth of attractions and activities! Relax in one of Atami's famous hot springs, take a cable care to Mount Omuro to get a panaromic view of the mountain as seen in Makoto Shinkai's animated film "Your Name" or visit the MOA Museum of Art for a cultural experience!
With these diverse offerings, Atami provides a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and adventure complementing your fireworks festival experience!
Hotels Near the Festival
Known as a seaside city, Atami has long been a popular seaside resort town. Popular for its ryokans and hot springs, you wouldn't want to miss out staying a night or two over there!
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Fireworks Festivals Near Osaka
Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, the Kansai region (Osaka, Kyoto etc.) offers some of Japan’s most spectacular firework festivals. One of the major highlights is the Osaka Tenjin Festival, a grand celebration featuring spectacular fireworks, lively parades and boat processions!
While we might have just missed the Tenjin Festival that takes place late July, Kansai is also home to several other must-see firework shows that offer their unique charm and brilliance.
1. Wakayama Marina City Fireworks Display
Credit: Visit Japan Now Official Facebook
This summer, Wakayama Marina City will be illuminated with a spectacular fusion of fireworks and music. It also offers a variety of Japanese street food, adding to the vibrant atmosphere and cultural experience. To top it off, enjoy a double fruit-picking experience with Kyoho grapes and pears in August and September!
Don’t miss this event that’s happening across the month of 13, 14, 15,16, 23 August and 14 September!
2. Himeji Central Park Fireworks Display
This amusement park is not to be missed! Boasting one of Western Japan’s largest resort pools, this is an incredible way to spend a hot, summer afternoon. Relax and have fun at a spacious, tropical-style water park, and get up close with animals on foot in a Walking Safari!
Available on several dates throughout August, thousands of fireworks light up the evening sky at the Hime-Matsuri Summer Fireworks 2025. Whether you’re after wildlife, water fun, or fireworks, your day is about to be packed with summer excitement!
Other Activities around the Area
Sun-bathe at the Shira-hama beach, visit the stunning white coast of Shirasaki Marine Park, or meet Tama II, the predecessor of Tama, the iconic cat stationmaster at Kishi station!
Getting There
Reaching Shira-hama beach is easy and convenient, especially by bullet train. If you're heading in from Tokyo, take the Shinkansen train to Shin-Osaka station before transferring to the Limited Express Kurushio that takes you to Shira-hama station (JR Kinokuni Line).
Hotels Near the Festival
Known for its pristine white-sand beaches, Shira-hama might just be the perfect getaway for those looking to relax and explore the natural beauty of the region. Here are some nearby hotels which you may consider for a weekend getaway.
3. Awa Dance Festival
Credit: Tokushima Prefecture Tourism Association
If fireworks are not your thing, this summer in Japan has something else in store for you too. Immerse yourself into Japan's largest dance festival, the Awa Odori!
Anyone can easily join the Awa Odori dance, so you can enjoy the performance by watching or personally participate in dancing together with the dancers for an authentic experience.
Other Activities around the Area
Credit: Tokushima Prefecture Tourism Association
Explore Tokushima City to enjoy the festive atmosphere of the town and food stands. If you're feeling adventurous, hop on the Wonder Naruto sightseeing cruise for a close look of the Naruto Whirlpools!
4. Minato Kobe Marine Fireworks Festival
Credit: Japan Travel K.K
Happening from 20 - 24 October 2025, the Minato Kobe Marine Fireworks Festival is one of Kansai’s most spectacular events, held in the bustling port city of Kobe. This festival takes place along the waterfront, featuring a stunning display of over 10,000 fireworks, illuminating the night sky and reflecting beautifully on the sea!
Getting There
The nearest viewing point is at the Meriken Park, located in the heart of Kobe's waterfront area, is easily accessible by public transportation! To reach the park, take the JR Kobe Line to Motomachi Station, which is just a few minutes walk away from the park. Alternatively, it is also a 15-minutes walk from the Kobe station.
With so much to do in Kobe, consider booking the JR Kansai Pass through Klook for unlimited travel on JR trains within the region.
Other Activities around the Area
If you're at Kobe, Kobe's beef is a must-try Japanese delicacy! Savour the tender, flavorful meat that is well marbled with fat or try riding the ropeway to the Nunobiki Herb Garden, where you can stroll through beautiful gardens and enjoy panoramic views of the city!
Hotels Near the Festival
If you're looking to stay near the subway station, here are some options you may opt for.
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Fireworks Festivals in Hokkaido
Credit: Hokkaido Tourism Organization
Beyond the bustling city life of Tokyo and Osaka, Hokkaido offers its own fireworks festivals too!
Complemented by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, Hokkaido is known for its stunning natural landscapes and serene beauty, providing a unique backdrop for enjoying fireworks. This makes Hokkaido the perfect destination for those seeking a blend of nature and festivities!
1. Lake Toya Long Run Fireworks Festival
Credit: Hokkaido Tourism Organization
Nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, Lake Toya is known for its serene beauty and crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by lush greenery and volcanic mountains, it offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers.
Hokkaido hosts many festivals throughout the year, and one of its unique features is the long-running Lake Toya Fireworks Festival which runs every evening from late April to October, a display of dazzling fireworks at night, reflected beautifully on the waters of Lake Toya!
A must-see event if you’re in Hokkaido, each night, about 400 fireworks are launched from a boat on the lake, and 2025 marks its 44th year in running making it a beloved tradition in Hokkaido.
Getting There
To attend the Lake Toya fireworks festival, you may take the JR Hokkaido Limited Express from Sapporo Station to Toya Station, which is about a 2-hour long journey! From there, take a 15-minute local bus to Lake Toya from the Toyako Onsen bus terminal.
Other Activities around the Area
Photo credt: Stephan Fang on Unsplash
There's so much more to offer around Lake Toya. Part of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Lake Toya is famous for its hot springs, scenic views, and outdoor activities such as hiking and boating.
Pay a visit to Hokkaido brown bears or Noboribetsu Hell Valley, which name is derived from its hellish-like appearance that was formed by lava after a volcanic eruption. Finally, end off the perfect day at Lake Toya as the fireworks reflect on the waters.
Hotels Near the Festival
Consider staying at one these lakeside accommodations where you can have a front-row seat to the fireworks show and experience the tranquility of Lake Toya up close.
2. Hokkaido Moerenuma Art Fireworks
This year, the Hokkaido Moerenuma Art Fireworks will be held on 6 September 2025. A highly anticipated event in Sapporo, it is renowned for its stunning display of 20,000 fireworks, including its "art ball" fireworks accompanied with music. This festival attracts large crowds, local and tourists, and is often a sold-out show not to be missed!
Getting There
To reach the Hokkaido Moerenuma Art Fireworks, you'll have to get to Moerenuma Park which is a short bus or taxi ride away from Sapporo station. Take the Toho subway train to Kanjo Dori Higashi station before hopping onto local bus 69 or 79 dropping off at the park's east entrance. Alternatively, for easy access, Klook also offer a shuttle bus service directly to the festival from Sapporo station.
If you're staying within Hokkaido for a couple of days or weeks, you might want to consider purchasing the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass to enjoy unlimited rides on the JR Hokkaido trains and designated JR buses within Hokkaido!
Other Activities around the Area
Sapporo in September has its own charms! As summer transitions to autumn, the city offers a variety of activities to enjoy. Take the Usuzan ropeway up to the UNESCO Geopark, Mount Usu, and learn about the history of this famous volcano and the eruptions. Remember to visit the iconic Sapporo TV Tower and enjoy a stroll through Odori Park.
With these attractions, Sapporo in September offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and urban delights, ensuring a memorable trip alongside the spectacular fireworks display.
Hotels Near the Festival
For those planning to attend the Hokkaido Moerenuma Art Fireworks, securing comfortable and convenient accommodation is key to enhancing your festival experience! Here are some hotels located near Sapporo station.
Tips for Enjoying Japanese Firework Festivals
Arriving early is key to making the most of your festival experience. The best spots fill up quickly, so secure a good viewing spot early!
Bring a picnic mat with snacks, drinks, and a blanket to enjoy a relaxing evening under the stars, as many locals do. Don’t forget to also check the weather forecast and come prepared with umbrellas or ponchos in case of rain.
Do also dress comfortable, as comfort is key when attending a firework festival. Make sure to wear light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes. To truly immerse yourself in the full cultural experience, consider renting a Yukata or Kimono. Klook offers convenient rental services that include a variety of styles to choose from around the different regions!
Finally, it is important to plan your transportation. Popular Japanese festivals often mean large crowds, it is important to plan your travel routes. Utilising public transportation is a smart way to avoid traffic and parking issues when attending firework festivals. Planning your return journey is also crucial, be sure to check the last train or bus times and have a back-up plan for getting back to your accommodation.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best month to view fireworks in Japan?
The best time to view fireworks in Japan are inevitably during the peak of the summer festival season, July and August. However, there are also many notable fireworks events after summer, such as the Lake Toya Long Run Fireworks Festival, providing additional opportunities to enjoy these stunning shows!
Top three fireworks festivals in Japan?
While subjective to each, if you happen to be in Japan during Summer, here are our Top 3 fireworks festivals to experience. The Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival in Tokyo that happens on the last Saturday of July, the Osaka Tenjin Festival at the end of July and, Nagaoka Fireworks Festival in Niigata Prefecture, held in early August.
Should you go for Japanese festivals?
Experiencing Japan's firework festivals is definitely a way to immerse yourself in the local culture! From the vibrant displays in Kobe to the serene yet spectacular fireworks shows in Hokkaido, each festival offers a unique experience that captures the heart and soul of Japan.
As you plan your next trip to Japan, make sure to include these amazing festivals in your itinerary. They are not just events but experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime!
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