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Tonegawa Fireworks Festival is known to be one of the best in the region, with over 30,000 fireworks used throughout the two-hour-long display. 2024 marks the 37^th run of this festival in Sakai Town, Ibaraki Prefecture.

 

The show is unique for its expert design and quality ― it involves four of the most esteemed firework companies in Japan, two of which are based in Ibaraki. All four participants have won numerous prestigious awards, including the Prime Minister’s Award at two of the most famous firework events in the country: the Ōmagari Hanabi (National Fireworks Festival) in Akita Prefecture and the Tsuchiura All Japan Fireworks Competition in Ibaraki Prefecture. Each company specializes in different types of fireworks allowing spectators to enjoy the diverse skills of the Japan`s top pyrotechnicians.

 

Another feature of this show is that the most of the program consists of a spectacular display of fireworks that are launched in sync with music. The grand in scale “musical fireworks” are set up at multiple locations across a broad area along the riverbanks, reflecting in the water and making it a truly immersive show. With Sakai Town and the grand Tone River as its setting, this show plays homage to Sakai’s vibrant history as a flourishing logistic hub in the Edo Period (1603-1867) as the founders made this event to encourage those to appreciate the unique charms of Sakai.

The fireworks display starts from 18:30, with a preliminary ceremony starting at 18:00. Due to the expected heavy traffic it is recommended to arrive two hours before the ceremony. For those who wish to come early to stroll along the food carts and enjoy traditional snacks, the venue will open at 13:00. The show will conclude at around 20:30.

 

Although the fireworks will certainly be visible from various locations, there is a fee to watch from within the official venue – many ticketing options guarantee great views and a better overall experience. Please see the official homepage for more information.

 

In the event of bad weather, the event will be moved from the 14^th to the following day so be sure to check the homepage for updates.

Dates:

September 14, 2024

Venue opens from 13:00

Fireworks: 18:30 – 20:30 (approximately)

Location:

Sakai Riverside Park and its surroundings, Sakai Town

Google Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/F5sHSHD2xtfdCiEy5

Fees:

Various ticket options available from official website (listed below)

About Tonegawa Fireworks Festival:

https://www.sakai-hanabi.com/ (Japanese)