By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department, compiled and reported
July each year is the season when Japan’s fireworks festivals frequently light up the night sky. Among the many beautiful displays, Tokyo’s “Sumida River Fireworks Festival” is the most popular. This year marks its 38th edition, to be held on the evening of July 25. In case of bad weather, it will be postponed to July 26. Additionally, before 10:00 AM on July 25, an announcement will be made on whether the event will proceed as scheduled in case of rain.
The 38th Sumida River Fireworks Festival will be held on July 25. (Image source / gotokyo)
The Sumida River Fireworks Festival is arguably the largest and most famous fireworks display in the Kanto region, continuing the tradition of the “Ryogoku River Fireworks Festival” from the Edo period, which began in 1733 (the 18th year of the Horeki era). The fireworks launch sites are divided into two areas: the first site is between Sakura Bridge and Kaminaribashi, and the second site is between Komagata Bridge and Umaya Bridge. This year, the total number of fireworks launched at both sites is expected to reach 20,000, with the second site being the main launch location for large, consecutive fireworks. Over 20,000 brilliant fireworks will color Tokyo’s night sky in vibrant hues. Each year, innovative and trendy firework designs are introduced, making the one-hour-and-20-minute festival extraordinarily lively.
Beautiful fireworks reflected alongside the Sumida River. (Image source / japan.go)
On the day of the fireworks display, many Japanese people wear yukata to enjoy the show. (Image provided / Mook Editorial Department)
Although the fireworks start at 19:05 and continue until 20:30, most people begin securing the best viewing spots in the afternoon and wait at the venue early. If you wish to watch the show in person, it is recommended to arrive early. To enjoy this summer fireworks spectacle, besides taking a sightseeing bus or yakatabune (traditional Japanese houseboat) on the Sumida River, Tokyo Skytree has also set up a special fireworks viewing area, creating the best vantage point for the display. It is advisable to book and reserve your spot early. Between 17:30 and 20:30 that evening, Tokyo Skytree will only allow 945 visitors into the observation deck to admire the spectacular fireworks blooming brilliantly above.
On the day of the fireworks, the entire Asakusa area is flooded with crowds, and even spots where only parts of the fireworks can be seen are bustling with people. (Image provided / Mook Editorial Department)
Viewing the fireworks from Tokyo Skytree offers a completely different perspective and atmosphere compared to watching them from the ground. (Image source / Tokyo Skytree)
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