🎎 Sumida River Fireworks Festival

The Sumida River Fireworks Festival is the largest fireworks festival in Japan, held on the last Saturday of July each year. This historic event originated as a way to commemorate those who perished during the great famine of the Edo period and to pray for the end of epidemics, with fireworks first launched after the Suijin Matsuri held by the 8th shogun, Yoshimune. At the first venue, spectators can witness the opening fireworks featuring rapid-fire displays, with over 1,000 shots launched continuously. Following this, a fireworks competition featuring top domestic pyrotechnicians is one of the highlights. The second venue showcases an even greater number of fireworks than the first, allowing attendees to fully enjoy a stunning fireworks performance. Taking a luxurious yakatabune (traditional houseboat) or cruise to view the fireworks from the Sumida River is also very popular. The Tokyo Skytree is expected to offer a special plan for viewing the fireworks from its observation deck.

The fireworks festival, which is said to have originated during the Edo period, has a long history. There are two venues, each with its own unique characteristics. Watching the fireworks from houseboats and cruise ships is also quite popular. This event will be canceled in case of bad weather.