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32nd Akagawa Fireworks Festival
Aiming to be “Japan’s Most Moving Fireworks Show,” this top-notch competition draws the nation’s best pyrotechnicians in an dazzling launch of 12,000 fireworks across a vast 700-meter-wide site.
Held in Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture—famous for the sacred Dewa Sanzan mountains—the Akagawa Fireworks Festival is one of Japan’s premier summer events. Taking place annually on the third Saturday of August, the 2025 edition marks the 20th anniversary of Tsuruoka City’s formation following the 2005 municipal merger, making it a particularly memorable year.
This festival is also recognized as a design fireworks competition, attracting some of the most skilled and celebrated pyrotechnicians from across Japan. Their carefully choreographed displays are a major draw for fireworks enthusiasts nationwide.
Approximately 12,000 fireworks are launched throughout the evening, with the highlight being the music-synchronized starmine program. Stretching up to 700 meters wide, these dramatic panoramic bursts of color and sound are sure to leave a lasting impression on everyone who witnesses them.
Note: The entire venue is ticketed—no entry is allowed without a ticket, so be sure to secure yours in advance.
Highlights
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The 32nd festival in 2025 will be a special memorial event celebrating the 20th anniversary of the founding of the new Tsuruoka City.
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Features a highly entertaining program designed to deliver the most moving fireworks experience in Japan.
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Highlights include breathtaking panoramic fireworks spanning up to 700 meters wide.
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The venue is fully ticketed—entry is only allowed with a valid ticket.
Photos
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The powerful finale fireworks are said to surpass those of any other festival in Japan
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A true showcase of the masterful techniques of Japan’s top pyrotechnicians
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 赤川花火大会
- Location
- Akagawa riverbed, Tsuruoka City, Yamagata(Mikawa Bridge – Haguro Bridge)
- Telephone
- 0235-64-0701(Akagawa Fireworks Festival Executive Committee Office)
- Schedule
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Saturday, August 16, 2025
Start Time: Fireworks scheduled to begin at 7:15pm
Note: In case of severe weather, the event will be canceled without postponement. - Access
- About 30 minutes walk from JR Tsuruoka Station.
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)