By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department
 
When you visit Japan in the summer, one thing you absolutely can’t miss is the annual Japanese summer festival. Wander through the lively night markets in a traditional yukata, and of course, don’t forget the highlight — the fireworks display, where you can enjoy a variety of creative fireworks lighting up the night sky. Summer festivals are mainly held on weekends in July and August. If you’re in Japan during this time, keep an eye out for festival information and take the chance to experience this special Japanese summer tradition.

Kanto Region

1. Sumida River Fireworks Festival
The Sumida River Fireworks Festival is the oldest recorded fireworks event, with a history of nearly 300 years. It’s considered a representative fireworks festival in Tokyo because you can enjoy the view of the Tokyo Skytree while watching the fireworks.

Date: July 30, 2016
Address: Sumida River Riverside, Minami-Senju, Arakawa Ward, Tokyo
 
2. Edogawa Fireworks Festival
The Edogawa Fireworks Festival is arguably the most representative summer festival in the Kanto region and is one of the three major fireworks events in Tokyo. Each year, over a million people come together to celebrate, and the opening show featuring 1,000 fireworks launched within five seconds is an unmissable highlight.

Date: August 6, 2016
Address: 25-ban, Kamakurabashi, Edogawa Ward, Tokyo

3. Kamakura Fireworks Festival
The highlight of the Kamakura Fireworks Festival is the water fireworks, launched from boats sailing on the sea. Though the number of fireworks is relatively small, its seaside location has made it one of Japan’s popular summer festival destinations in recent years.

Date: July 20, 2016
Address: Yuigahama, Kamakura City, Kanagawa
 
4. Adachi Fireworks Festival
The Adachi Fireworks Festival has a history of about 100 years since its first edition and was once ranked as the second most popular fireworks festival in the Kanto region. Each year features a different theme, aiming to deliver a fresh and exciting experience for all attendees.