Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.
A gorgeous "Fireworks of Prayer" that envelops the audience in emotion.
It is one of the three major fireworks festivals in Japan and a colorful summer tradition in Niigata. The origins of the Nagaoka fireworks date back to 1879, during an autumn festival at a local shrine. Despite interruptions due to war, the festival was revived in 1947. Following the devastating Chuetsu Earthquake in 2004, the launch of the "Phoenix" fireworks began the next year as a prayer for recovery. The fireworks are also a tribute to those who died in the Nagaoka air raids, a thank-you to those who contributed to the reconstruction, and a wish for everlasting peace, reflecting the resilience of the Nagaoka community. The festival is held annually on August 2nd and 3rd.
Spectator seats are set up on both banks of the Shinano River, enabling viewers to enjoy the fireworks from multiple directions. This unique arrangement allows for the extensive use of large-scale fireworks, including the use of "shakudama" (No. 10 shells), which is a distinctive feature of the festival. Among the highlights are the " Shosanshaku-dama," with a bloom width of about 650 meters, and the "Phoenix" firework, a one-of-a-kind spectacle that simulates a phoenix dancing across the night sky over a span of about 2 kilometers.
Since the fireworks display is expected to be very crowded on the day of the event, the rule of thumb is to leave plenty of time for your visit. Please refer to the official website for detailed information on crowds and how to avoid them.
Excitement is inevitable with a series of large fireworks
Nagaoka Fireworks Festival's famous "Shosanshaku-dama (No. 30)" fireworks
Fireworks "Phoenix" to pray for reconstruction and can only be seen at this fireworks festival.
A large display of fireworks lights up the night sky of Nagaoka
Some reviews are AI-translated.
Both the fireworks and the event organization itself are fantastic.
The fireworks from the viewing seats are truly impressive, and the event is run so well that you can enjoy them in relative comfort.
There are a lot of spectators, but I think going by Shinkansen or train is very smooth and convenient.
Between Nagaoka Station and the viewing area, there are plenty of places to buy food and drinks, including shops, food stalls, and local supermarkets. It’s fun to walk while imagining how you’ll spend the evening watching the fireworks.
The viewing areas are divided into many large sections, but there are plenty of signs, guidance, and staff directing people, so even if you get a little lost, you’ll definitely make it to your seat. There are many people, but they’ve put a lot of thought into keeping everyone moving smoothly, so there is less confusion and heavy crowding than you might expect.
The fireworks filled the sky in sync with the music—so stunning and powerful! No wonder it's one of Japan's top three fireworks festivals.
The fireworks light up the sky over the Shinano River, and the reflections on the water make the view even more magical.
![[Japan Travel Guide] Must-See Classic Spots and Food to Enjoy on Your First Trip](https://static.gltjp.com/glt/data/article/21000/20522/20231127_155101_412e7290_w640.webp)
