Characteristics of Japanese fireworks (Taken from Introduction to Fireworks by the Japan Pyrotechnics Association, FY2017 edition)
Japanese fireworks, particularly its well-known bursting cored chrysanthemum fireworks, are said to be the most exquisite and beautiful in the world. Their three main characteristics are listed below.
Japanese firework shells have a spherical shape, while Western fireworks are typically cylindrical. Japan also packs its shells with spherical stars, versus cylindrical Western stars. These Japanese hoshi feature layers of differently colored explosives, much like Japan’s old-fashioned kawaridama candy balls that have rings of color inside.
As the figure on the right shows, a Japanese firework packs hoshi spherically into the shell (container) with a bursting charge (the explosive that breaks apart the firework) in the center. The outside of the shell is made from multiple layers of durable paper that are pasted on and then dried. Striking the perfect balance between the force of the blast charge and the way the paper is glued is what allows the firework to burst into a perfect sphere with evenly-scattered hoshi. If the paper is not glued evenly, the firework will not explode symmetrically, resulting in a distorted flowering.
Cylindrical fireworks do not scatter stars in all directions, so they are not perfectly spherical when they burst. Western fireworks also have different coloration than Japanese fireworks, and are known for unusual patterns such as those that burst multiple times in the air. The smaller fireworks are equal in terms of their brilliance, but when they exceed a No. 5 (15 cm) shell, the Japanese fireworks achieve significantly more exquisite and beautiful expressions.
Japanese fireworks experts have also been able to perfect the techniques to create two or three concentric cores (cored fireworks) through their skillful use of Japanese paper. The ability to achieve an extraordinary level of harmonious beauty, where the firework appears perfectly spherical from all angles, with excellent color transformation and a clean disappearing point, is attributed to Japan’s unique aesthetic and superior craftsmanship. They represent the crystallization (and indeed, they can be as perfect as crystals) of the wisdom and tireless effort of generations of firework artisans. In recent years, Japan’s pyrotechnicians have been challenging themselves to create four-core, or even five-core fireworks, proving that there is no limit to their artistic curiosity and achievements.
Source：http://www.hanabi-jpa.jp/data/booklet.html
What makes Japanese fireworks unique
Fireworks are manufactured and consumed all over the world, but they are not the same wherever you go. Every country has its own unique firework characteristics. Japanese fireworks are known for their exquisite delicacy and rich artistry. The following are the three main characteristics of Japanese fireworks.
Enjoy Top Japanese Fireworks Festivals With Odynovo
The Japanese fireworks festival is not only about hanabi, but also about food, music, and traditional culture. If you are planning a trip to Japan in the summer, or would like to add the blooming night flowers to your journey, please get in touch with Odynovo at [email protected] for the best itinerary according to your preferences.
Color changing chrysanthemum with four cores by Sugano Fireworks (Fukushima)
This multilayered firework comes with two, three, four, or even five rings arranged inside its shell. The hoshi in each layer transform into two or three colors, resulting in a gorgeous bloom that produces between six and twelve colors in a brief two seconds before fading forever into the night sky. Japanese artistic fireworks--the envy of the world—don’t get much better than this.
Fireworks photograph:Kiminari Onozato
Fireworks are more than a spectacular light show in Japan. The art of Hanabi dates back centuries and today, firework festivals are a major attraction. Table of contens:
Intro A Brief History of Japanese Fireworks What are Japanese Fireworks? Top 10 Fireworks Festivals in Japan Bonus Tips IntroFireworks are big in Japan, and have a long, colourful history going back to the Edo Period. Today, they have become synonymous with both summer festivals and New Year celebrations. In fact, they are so popular they have inspired festivals of their own, as well as spectacular competitions between Japanese fireworks experts, each trying to create a bigger and better display than the last. When you visit Japan, why not celebrate the trip of a lifetime with a visit to a fireworks festival? We’ll run through 10 of the best from across Japan below, and tell you how to get there with your Japan Rail Pass. In Japan, fireworks are more than just a light show, they’re an art form known as ‘hanabi’ which literally translates as ‘flower fire’. They are not just for creating dazzling displays, but as we will go on to explain, they have a deeper significance relating to Japan’s heartfelt appreciation for ephemeral beauty. A Brief History of Japanese FireworksAs mentioned, the word ‘hanabi’ in Japanese means ‘flower fire’ - a very apt and beautiful description for fireworks, which hints at their cultural significance in Japan. Hanabi first became popular during the Edo period as a symbol and celebration of spiritual beauty. They have also been historically used to ward off evil spirits, and in the modern era have become synonymous celebrations, from summer festivals and major sporting & music events, through to bringing in the New Year.
Top 10 Fireworks Festivals in Japan
Arguably the oldest and most historic display in Japan, Tokyo’s Sumida River Fireworks Festival dates back to the 1700s (as we mentioned above). The festival usually takes place on the last Saturday in July each year along the river. You can reach the area via Asakusa Station. The festival is also close to Tokyo’s famous Sensoji Temple. Read our guide to Visiting Asakusa for more about the area. Speaking of shrines and temples, don’t miss the fireworks at Osaka Tenjin Festival either - another great destination.2.) Lake Suwa Festival
There’s something beautiful about seeing fireworks reflecting in the still water of a beautiful lake or river - perhaps that is why there are so many festivals based at these locations? The Lake Suwa Festival in Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture, launches the highest number of fireworks of any festival in Japan - 40,000 - and was originally founded in 1949 to lift the spirits of the Japanese people after the end of the Second World War. Today, it attracts half a million visitors each year. Another top recommendation for fireworks over water are those over Miyajima Island around Itsukushima Shrine - Japan’s famous floating torii gate and one of the most iconic spots in Japan. Fireworks take place at Miyajima in mid-August each year. Find out more about the floating torii gate in our Ultimate Torii Gate Tour of Japan. 3.) Biwako Fireworks Festival, Shiga Prefecture
Biwako is the largest lake in Japan and makes a beautiful backdrop to a huge fireworks display. Although Biwako is in Shiga Prefecture, it’s only half an hour from Kyoto, one of Japan’s most famous cities and a cultural hotspot. Kyoto is also easily accessible via other cities across Japan, such as Tokyo and Osaka, using your JRailPass and the Shinkansen bullet train. For more on Kyoto read our guide to Exploring the Higashiyama district.4.) Kumano Fireworks Festival
This unique ‘fireworks on the sea’ festival sees pyrotechnics launched from a boat creating a spectacular sight over the sea and coast at Shichirimihama, Kumano City, Mie Prefecture. It is another festival with a long and proud history dating back 300 years. 5.) Toyota Oiden Festival
As well as dazzling fireworks, Toyota Oiden Festival is known for its lavish costumes, dancing, and music. It is held on the last Sunday of July each year in Aichi Prefecture.6.) Omagari National Fireworks Competition
One of Japan’s biggest and most spectacular fireworks festivals, Omagari National Fireworks Competition sees up to 800,000 visitors flock to Omagari district in Daisen City, Akita Prefecture. Famous for its storytelling and visual themes, this high-level display is often said to crown the No.1 fireworks expert in Japan. The competition and festival is one of only two events in Japan to receive a Prime Minister’s Award. 7.) Akagawa Fireworks Festival
Based at Akagawa riverside in Yamagata prefecture, this festival features more than 12,000 fireworks and attracts some of Japan’s most skilled pyrotechnic experts8.) Nagaoka Fireworks Festival
This is one of three famous fireworks shows held in Niigata Prefecture and 2021 will see its 75th anniversary. Together the three shows are known as the Fireworks Festivals of Echigo. They are the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival, Gion Kashiwazaki Festival, and Katakai Festival. The region loves fireworks so much, it even has winter displays too - the Echigo-Tsumari Snow Fireworks and the Tokamachi Snow Festival. Nagaoka Fireworks Festival is arguably the biggest of all and takes place over two nights in August. It features the largest fireworks shells in Japan - Sanjakudama shells - and has a signature firework called the Phoenix Shell - a symbol of rebirth and recovery introduced after the 2004 Niigata earthquake. Read our guide to Visiting Niigata Prefecture with the JR Pass for more on this area9.) Kachimai Fireworks Festival
The word ‘kachimai’ roughly translates to ‘every win’ and everyone does win when it comes to this amazing fireworks festival along the Tokachi river in Hokkaido - Japan’s northernmost island. The festival takes place near Furano and the Tokachi mountains. Furano is famous for its skiing in winter and also for its beautiful lavender in the summer. Read more in our guide to Furano - Japan’s Lavender Town. Meanwhile, for more on Hokkaido read our Five-Day Hokkaido Rail Itinerary. Hokkaido can be reached directly by rail from Tokyo, with a one-way trip taking roughly four hours using the Hokkaido Shinkansen. The trip is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass. Once in Hokkaido, there are a number of ways to reach Furano. If travelling from Tokyo, you can transfer at Sapporo (Hokkaido’s capital), Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto, or Takikawa. 10.) Atami Maritime Fireworks
This festival in Atami Bay was also founded to raise morale after a typhoon and fire in 1949/1950 and has been going strong ever since. Atami Bay is surrounded by mountains, and it is said that the fireworks echo twice as loud because of the natural insulation.
Japan has a long tradition of celebration and continues to have vibrant festivals. The fireworks festival (hanabi taikai) is one of Japan's most spectacular events, a cultural icon usually bustling during the summer nights with street food, games, and more festive celebrations that light up the sky. For your best Japan tour with the fantastic matsuri atmosphere, we now recommend the top 10 fireworks festivals in Japan for your reference.
Note: Tickets for most of the fireworks festivals usually go on sale in May, so it's best to plan and book your trip to Japan as early as possible. While exact dates for some festivals have yet to be confirmed, we've provided the 2025 schedule for your reference. We will update the information as official announcements are released.
As one of the most spectacular hanabi displays in Japan, the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival can be a brilliant part of your trip to Tokyo in July and a special way to experience the culture of the Edo period.
The ancient Sumidagawa Hanabi Taikai continued for about 300 years and still follows the traditional competition. During the 90-minute display, about 20,000 magnificent fireworks created by experienced, trained artisans will illuminate the night skies along the Sumida River.
The spot will be filled with crowds by then, so there is a need to reach it as early as possible. After the display, you can stroll around the Asakusa streets and Sensoji Temple, trying delicious street food. The illuminated Tokyo Skytree, one of Japan's most iconic landmarks, is a spectacular sight to behold along the Sumida River.
The Edogawa Fireworks Festival is another fascinating event in Tokyo. Held on the banks of the Edogawa River, there are about 14,000 amazing hanabi in total, each with its own beautiful design that will dazzle your eyes.
The opening sequence begins with 1,000 continuous fireworks in 5 seconds, followed by the unique and large hanabi blossom in the shape of Mt. Fuji, golden weeping willow, colorful rainbow, and more to surprise your imagination.
The celebration features eight different themes, each of which is accompanied by unique background music. You can have a view of the Tokyo skyline against the backdrop of incredibly dazzling light. The fireworks display along the Edogawa River is a great opportunity to take a great picture for your screensaver.
Golden Weeping Willow Fireworks
Also known as Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks, this hanabi taikai is now one of the biggest events in Osaka, a grand summer occasion lived up to expectations among visitors from all over the world.
The exhibition is performed on the banks of the Yodo River. Prepare to be amazed by a dazzling array of hanabi crafted by skilled artisans, lighting up the night sky in a breathtaking display. The city skyline beneath the fireworks creates a stunning visual contrast, making it a favorite for photographers.
Allowing for crowded visitors, it's best to arrive well before 6 pm, and the front-row seats are available for a better spectacular perspective. Adding to the festive atmosphere are locals dressed in vibrant yukatas and a variety of street vendors offering treats like grilled sausages, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all.
While fireworks launched from the ground are captivating, those displayed over the ocean can be even more breathtaking. The Kamakura Fireworks Festival stands out with its picturesque seaside backdrop and relaxed atmosphere.
Held on Yuigahama Beach in mid-July, this hanabi taikai is one of Japan's most exciting ocean-side events. The show lasts nearly an hour, featuring 4,000 hanabi in various designs and sizes. A highlight of the event is the "underwater fireworks," which bloom like vibrant flowers just beneath the water's surface.
During the day, you can explore Kamakura's historic sites, including its renowned temples and shrines, or enjoy the refreshing summer breeze at the beach before the evening's spectacular Hanabi display.
Recommended Tour Itinerary
Held during the Obon Festival, the Lake Suwa Hanabi Taikai is a popular fireworks show featuring an impressive display of 40,000 hanabi. First held in 1949 to inspire recovery and hope after a period of great loss, it has since become one of the most celebrated summer events in Japan.
Two standout features of the show are "Niagara Falls" and the "Kiss of Fire." Niagara Falls is a breathtaking 2-kilometer-long cascade of fireworks launched simultaneously, while the Kiss of Fire showcases mesmerizing underwater hanabi that bloom just above the water's surface.
As the fireworks burst in the sky, the lake's surface reflects the dazzling colors, creating the illusion of giant, vibrant flowers blooming on the water, transporting you to a scene from the anime Your Name.
As the name suggests, the Tsuchiura Fireworks Festival is a competition where master pyrotechnicians from across Japan gather to showcase their craftsmanship. This event is a spectacular fusion of traditional hanabi displays, modern technology, and artistic designs - a true feast for the eyes.
Following the competition, the entertainment fireworks display is equally captivating and worth staying for. To fully appreciate the intricate details and advanced techniques, it's recommended to pre-book front-row seats. Alternatively, you can join the locals and claim a spot early with your picnic mats.
Adding to the festive atmosphere are numerous food stalls along the Sakura River, offering a variety of street foods like takoyaki, apple candy, and taiyaki. Enjoying these treats while marveling at the breathtaking fireworks makes for an unforgettable experience that delights both your eyes and taste buds.
Fireworks Competition
As one of Japan's top three hanabi taikai, the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival is a must-see summer event featuring breathtaking displays, floating lanterns, and rich cultural experiences.
Held during the first three days of August, the festival offers a variety of attractions for spectators. Fireworks in the shapes of waterfalls, chrysanthemums, and volcanoes light up the night sky in vivid colors, while their thunderous booms resonate deeply. The highlight is undoubtedly the grand finale - a mesmerizing display of over 20,000 phoenix-shaped fireworks stretching across 2 kilometers, filling the sky with vibrant hues.
In addition to the dazzling hanabi along the banks of the Shinano River, the celebrations include traditional shrine float parades, traditional dance performances, and a serene riverside light-up with floating paper lanterns, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Dating back to around 1723, the Kumano Fireworks Festival has become a highly anticipated summer event for both the local community and international visitors.
The centerpiece of the festival is the enchanting fireworks display over the Kumano-nada seaside. The show features over 10,000 "Onigajo" self-exploding fireworks, creating a spectacle of light and sound.
One of the highlights is the pyrotechnic display launched from two ships, illuminating the night sky with dazzling designs and vibrant colors, accompanied by thrilling booms. The dreamlike seascape serves as the perfect backdrop for the brightly colored hanabi, offering a truly captivating experience. You can enjoy this two-hour masterpiece from Shichirigahama Beach, immersing yourself in its beauty and grandeur.
Seaside Fireworks Display
Omagari Hanabi is celebrated as one of the best fireworks displays in Japan. Held along the Omono River, it is also a national competition showcasing the finest craftsmanship as hanabi are choreographed to music.
The Omagari Fireworks Festival is well-known for its daytime show and evening hanabi display. From day to night, many groups of top-notch teams were invited to participate in the event, launching thousands of rockets into the sky. Don't forget to take notes and cast your vote for your favorite display.
The nighttime fireworks are the festival's crowning glory. The skies above Daisen ignite with a mesmerizing array of colors and patterns, synchronized to music and dramatic staging. This stunning visual and auditory experience is sure to leave you in awe.
Date: Late August, 2025 (yet to be determined)
Location: Miyajimacho, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima
The Miyajima Fireworks Festival is held off the coast of Miyajima annually in late August. The special site gives the display an unimaginable charm for Hanabi lovers. You can enjoy a wonderful view of nearly 5,000 spectacular fireworks reflecting off the water, while the torii gate stands amid the backdrop of the explosions.
The display usually lasts for one full hour. You can watch the show in the seaside areas, but they will be crowded. It's better to book a nearby hotel in advance to get a different sight or shoot a panoramic light show from the mainland of Hatsukaichi or Hiroshima. Additionally, Miyajima is an iconic cultural destination for the ancient structures and tranquility that form another of its charms.
Unfortunately, the 50-year-old fireworks festival has been announced to stop after 2022. We will continue to follow the local information and update you if it reopens.
Miyajima Shrine at Night
Lighting and disappearing timing (kiekuchi)
When fireworks explode, the hoshi that are packed inside light up. Ideally, they all light up in the same instant and all go dark at the same time as well. Fireworks that achieve this are said to have a clean kiekuchi, or “disappearing point”.
Japanese fireworks experts have been carefully studying and refining these three characteristics of Japanese fireworks for generations, and continue striving even today to take their skills and techniques to the next level.
How firework shells are structured
Fireworks are made of tiny lumps of powder called hoshi (“stars”) that scatter light in all directions. The hoshi are lined up side-by-side along the inside of concentric bowls made of paper. These are called the tamagawa, or shell casings. Finally, a bursting charge called the wariyaku is placed inside the firework to break apart the hoshi, along with a fuse. Launching explosive (a lifting charge) is attached to the completed firework shell, which is then loaded into a launching tube. When the lifting charge is lit, it simultaneously lights the fuse, which shoots the shell into the air. When the fuse lights the wariyaku, the countless hoshi fly in all directions, causing a huge flower of fire to bloom in the night sky.
Japan’s world-renowned artistic fireworks
The famed shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu was the first person to ever witness a firework in Japan. Ever since then, the Mikawa area of Aichi Prefecture has been a thriving fireworks region. Today, many other regions across Japan—most notably Akita, Miyagi, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Niigata, Yamanashi, Nagano, Tokyo, Kanagawa, Shizuoka, Fukuoka, Oita, and Kagoshima—are backed by a long and rich history of firework-making traditions. Meanwhile, the origins of Japanese artistic fireworks for the common people are said to date back to the Ryogoku Kawabiraki Fireworks of 1733. The year before, famine and disease had spread throughout the country, and many people died. Tokugawa Yoshimune decided to hold a festival as a memorial to the souls of the departed and to pray for the eradication of disease. It was dedicated to the water gods and scheduled for the first day of the boating season, known as kawabiraki no hi. Eventually, a fireworks festival came to be held every year on kawabiraki no hi, a tradition that led to the modern-day Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival. The first fireworks expert to make a name for himself at the festival was Yahei Kagiya. Later, a fireworks expert called Ichibei Tamaya would branch off from the Kagiya family and make his mark in Edo. To this day, the Japanese call out “Tamaya!” and “Kagiya!” when they watch a fireworks show.
Firework shell sizes and exploded height
Kaleidoscope with rising sliver trunk and blinking core by Isogai Fireworks (Aichi)
A silver trunk of light rises in the night sky as this firework is launched, bursting into bloom just as it reaches its highest point. From its sparkling center shoot eight huge petals in eight colors, as beautiful as a kaleidoscope.
