Sumida River Fireworks Festival
◆ Event Introduction
The Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Sumidagawa Hanabi Taikai) is one of Tokyo's most iconic and beloved summer events, and one of the oldest fireworks festivals in Japan with historical records. Held annually along the banks of the Sumida River in the Asakusa and Mukojima areas, this spectacular fireworks display attracts nearly one million visitors each year. Approximately 20,000 fireworks illuminate the Tokyo night sky from two launch sites along the river, creating a breathtaking panorama that has captivated audiences for centuries.
◆ Historical Background
The origins of the Sumida River Fireworks Festival trace back to 1733 (Kyoho 18) during the Edo period. In 1732, Japan was devastated by a severe famine that claimed countless lives, compounded by a widespread epidemic. To console the souls of the deceased and to ward off evil spirits, the eighth Tokugawa shogun, Yoshimune, held a water god festival (Suijinsai) along the banks of the Okawa (the historical name for the Sumida River). Restaurants near Ryogoku Bridge were granted permission to set off fireworks during the river-opening ceremony (Kawabiraki), and this became the origin of what was known as the "Ryogoku Kawabiraki" fireworks tradition.
For over two centuries, the Ryogoku fireworks remained a cherished summer tradition, deeply intertwined with Edo culture. The famous rivalry between the two legendary fireworks makers, Kagiya and Tamaya, became a celebrated part of this history. However, the event was suspended due to worsening traffic conditions and other factors, leading to a hiatus from 1962 onward.
In 1978, the festival was revived under its current name, "Sumida River Fireworks Festival." The launch sites were relocated further upstream, and a second venue was added, allowing even more spectators to enjoy the display.
◆ Event Details
📅 Date: Late July every year (typically the last Saturday of July)
🕖 Time: Approximately 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM
📍 Location: Along the Sumida River, in the Asakusa and Mukojima areas of Tokyo (Taito Ward and Sumida Ward)
◆ Launch Venues
🎆 First Venue (Dai-ichi Kaijo)
Located between Sakurabashi Bridge and Kototoibashi Bridge on the Sumida River, the First Venue is famous for the fireworks competition (Hanabi Concours), where top pyrotechnicians from across Japan showcase their finest creations. This venue features artistic and innovative fireworks designs that draw particular attention from fireworks enthusiasts.
🎇 Second Venue (Dai-ni Kaijo)
Located between Komagatabashi Bridge and Umayabashi Bridge, the Second Venue is known for its powerful and large-scale starmine displays (rapid-fire sequential fireworks). The continuous bursts of color and light from this venue create a dramatic and awe-inspiring spectacle.
◆ Viewing Areas and Access
🚃 For the First Venue
The nearest stations include Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line, Tobu Skytree Line), Oshiage Station (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Toei Asakusa Line, Keisei Line, Tobu Skytree Line), Tokyo Skytree Station (Tobu Skytree Line), and Hikifune Station (Tobu Skytree Line).
🚃 For the Second Venue
The nearest stations include Asakusa Station, Kuramae Station (Toei Asakusa Line, Toei Oedo Line), Ryogoku Station (JR Sobu Line, Toei Oedo Line), and Asakusabashi Station (JR Sobu Line, Toei Asakusa Line).
◆ What Makes This Festival Special
🏆 Fireworks Competition (Hanabi Concours)
The First Venue hosts a prestigious fireworks competition where skilled pyrotechnicians from across Japan compete, showcasing innovative and artistic fireworks. This is a unique opportunity to see cutting-edge fireworks artistry.
🌃 Tokyo Skyline Backdrop
The fireworks burst above the Sumida River with the illuminated Tokyo Skytree and the historic Asakusa cityscape as a stunning backdrop, creating a uniquely Tokyo experience.
🎎 Centuries of Tradition
With roots stretching back to 1733, the Sumida River Fireworks Festival is one of Japan's oldest and most historically significant fireworks events, embodying the spirit of Edo-period summer culture.
◆ Important Notes
⚠️ This page is for event information only. For inquiries about the festival, please feel free to contact us directly. Please note that availability of nearby accommodation may be limited during the festival period.
⚠️ The festival is held in an urban area; visitors watch while walking along designated one-way routes. There are no seated viewing areas on the streets. Movement is slow due to extreme crowding. Plan your arrival and departure well in advance.
⚠️ Shops and restaurants in the area are extremely crowded, and securing rest areas or drinks may be difficult. Please prepare your own beverages and cooling supplies in advance.
⚠️ Late July in Tokyo is very hot and humid. Heat-related illness is common during the event, especially when wearing yukata or consuming alcohol. Please bring plenty of water, sun protection, and cooling supplies.
⚠️ The event may be postponed or canceled due to severe weather. Please check official announcements for the latest updates.
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