Colorful fireworks in front of the Tokyo Skytree (Photo: Anne Lauenroth)

Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival

One of Tokyo's major summer fireworks displays

Anne Lauenroth   - 1 min read
Venue : Sumida River When : Late Jul 2024

Fireworks have a long history in Japan and are an integral part of many summer festivals. The Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival in Tokyo dates back to the Edo period and is one of Japan's most famous fireworks displays.

Every last Saturday in July, colorful fireworks are launched from both sides of the Sumida River. The spectacle is best seen from close to the river, although it can get very crowded, and best spots are often taken hours in advance. Still, the festive atmosphere, with people dressing up in yukata and picnicking in the streets and parks, is worth it.

Anne Lauenroth

Anne Lauenroth @anne.lauenroth

German writer, translator and editor with a passion for travel, photography and all things Japanese. More about me and my work on www.allwordz.com and www.floating-worlds.com.