Taiji, a town in Wakayama Prefecture known as the birthplace of traditional Japanese whaling, is preparing to hold its annual fireworks festival on Friday, August 14. Around 1,000 fireworks will light up the night sky above Taiji Fishing Port beginning at 8 PM, alongside the town's traditional Hashiramatsu ceremony. The event is a long-standing summer tradition for local residents and visitors alike, and this year also marks the 10th anniversary of the Japan Heritage recognition awarded to Taiji's "Living with Whales" story.
Event Details
| Name | Taiji Fireworks Festival |
| Date | Friday, August 14, 2026, 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM |
| Rain Date | Wednesday, August 19 |
| Venue | Taiji Fishing Port (Fureai Plaza), Taiji, Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture |
| Organizer | Taiji Fireworks Festival Executive Committee |
| Admission | Free |
Highlights
About 1,000 Fireworks Over Taiji Fishing Port
At Taiji Fishing Port, the birthplace of traditional Japanese whaling, the festival opens with a Kujira Daiko (whale drum) performance depicting the town's whaling heritage, followed by around 1,000 fireworks, including aerial shells and set pieces, filling the summer night sky. The fireworks reflected on the water's surface, combined with the acoustics unique to the inlet, create an especially immersive viewing experience.
The Dynamic Hashiramatsu Tradition
The festival also features the spirited traditional event known as Hashiramatsu. Participants throw lit torches at a tall pole in a dynamic display that adds extra excitement to the summer night and draws the attention of many visitors.
A Summer Night in the Heart of Japan Heritage "Living with Whales"
Taiji is the central town of the Japan Heritage story "Living with Whales," which marks its 10th anniversary of designation this year. On the night of the festival, visitors can enjoy a summer evening surrounded by the town's distinctive port scenery while experiencing its culture and history. Several of the story's constituent cultural properties are scattered throughout the town, making it a good idea to visit them during the day as well.
Access
Venue: Taiji Fishing Port (Fureai Plaza), Taiji, Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture
By Car: About 70 minutes from the Susami-Minami IC or about 70 minutes from the Kumano-Otomari IC on the Kisei Expressway. Parking is limited, so visitors are encouraged to consider public transportation or staying overnight in the area.
By Train: About a 40-minute walk from Taiji Station on the JR Kisei Main Line (a town-operated loop bus is also available for the outbound trip, taking about 7 minutes).
