Japan is infamous for its hot summer— but the country is not all that from July to September because there is one thing Japanese people and foreign residents alike are looking forward to: summer festivals. These summer festivals often have mini-games and food booths showcasing the local culture of a place; but one of the things that festival-goers often look forward to is the magnificent fireworks displays. One of the most famous fireworks display is found in Niigata prefecture, in a city called Nagaoka. The Nagaoka Hanabi Matsuri (Nagaoka Fireworks Festival) attracts over one million people each year, which makes it an event worth attending!
What Makes Nagaoka Hanabi Matsuri So Special?
Often regarded as one of the top three firework displays in the country, the Nagaoka Hanabi Matsuri is actually a war-damage reconstruction event to honor those who died in the Second World War. The first firework display was held in 1879 and after World War II, the “Reconstruction Festival” was revived. Ever since then, the Nagaoka fireworks festival brings happiness and wonder to those who watch it.
Is it limited to Nagaoka residents only? The answer is: NO. Everyone can join the event and residents from all over Japan (and other countries too!!) visit Nagaoka just to see the spectacular display.
I am going by foot, will I need a car to go there? The answer is, again, NO. It is ideally desired to watch the fireworks display in the ticketed riverbed booths of Shinano River BUT you can see it from near the station as well! In fact, there are also parks where you can view the display such as Taishi Park and Koshoji Central Park!
I was not able to make it this year, will I ever see this again? Definitely YES! The fireworks festival is held annually on August 2-3 from 7:20 pm until 9:10 pm for both days (weather permitted.) Yes, you read it right. Almost two hours of non-stop firework display! You can study more about the event through their official website: Nagaoka Matsuri.
Japanese Discipline And Crowd Control
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It is a festival so is it kid friendly? Going alone friendly? Environmentally friendly? Yes, yes, and another yes. The Japanese are famous for their cleanliness and discipline, and this is naturally manifested in a well-organized event like the Nagaoka fireworks festival.
Crowd Experience: Since the Nagaoka city office closes the roads near the Shinano River, there are little to no cars in the riverbed. Foot traffic is controlled by enforcers and specialized lanes are designated depending on the ticket bought. Of course, not everyone has a ticket but there are also enforcers who constantly remind everyone to remain calm— even in unticketed areas. Similarly the foot traffic going back to the station will be crowded but the station staff will guide you to the proper lane of the train line that you will board. Take note that there is a separate line for those who bought Shinkansen (Bullet Train) tickets and those who have ones for the JR Lines. It is relatively safe to go to this festival so make sure to visit at least once during your stay in Japan!
How is the train situation? Expect that the trains will be cramped, hot, and full. For example, if you ride the Joetsu Line from Muikamachi station to Nagaoka at two ‘o’clock in the afternoon, there is no more chance for you to have any seats throughout the rest of your journey. Pro Tip: If you will board a train line and want a fast and seamless train experience going back to your stay, make sure to buy tickets the moment you arrive in the station. Although the line moves fast, it is still long and might affect you riding the last train schedule!
Food Stalls At The Nagaoka Fireworks Festival
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Is food available near the fireworks location? Japanese festivals will not be complete without having food stalls around the main event so to answer your question— yes, you can eat while watching the fireworks! Make sure to bring hundred yen coins for easier and faster transactions because the food offered in stalls are usually denominated by hundreds. If you are not accustomed to the mottainai principle of the Japanese, that is— carrying your trash until you go home, then worry not because common bins for easier collection of trash will be provided in the venue. If you are worried about the smell then fret not because there is no smell at all!
Is Traveling To Niigata Just To See The Nagaoka Hanabi Worth It?
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The Nagaoka fireworks festival is more than just a beautiful pyrotechnic show; it’s also about the historical resilience of a city that rose from ashes. Months of meticulous planning, on-site crowd management, and respect for the environment during the event is an authentic Japanese value that is worth traveling for! Moreover, the breathtaking colors and shapes that create unique pictures leaves the watchers in awe but beyond that the discipline practiced by the audience speaks volumes on why this event is worth your energy. Experiencing the Nagaoka fireworks firsthand is unforgettable and surely, the magic of the display will linger in your heart long after the festival ends.
General tickets go on sale May 26 (Mon) ~ June 6 (Fri). As it’s a weekend this year the tickets are bound to sell out very quickly!
Buy your tickets here: https://nagaokamatsuri.com/ticket/presale/
Related Articles:
- Nagaoka Hanabi Matsuri – All About the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival
- Hanabi Matsuri – the History Behind Japan’s Firework Festivals
- Recommended Fireworks Festivals in Japan in Autumn
Featured Image Credit: The Author
