Yamagata Prefecture
One of the top 10 firework shows in all of Japan, in Yamagata prefecture.
By far the largest attraction in terms of numbers for Tsuruoka City, the annual Akagawa Firework Festival first started in 1991 and has since become known as one of the top 10 firework shows in all of Japan.
Over the course of an hour and a half, tens of thousands of fireworks are fired along the Mogami River where they create dazzling displays that sync with music that is played from large speakers across the large festival grounds.
Sitting up close to the spectacle, you will see your entire field of vision filled with vibrant displays and feel the sheer awe send shivers through you even on the warm summer nights of August.
Unlike the other major firework festivals in Japan, The Akagawa Firework Festival is one of the easiest festivals to see and this event has not been plagued by ticket scalpers who cause events to sell out immediately when tickets go on sale.
This festival now sells out nearly instantly upon going live.
Visitors should also be sure to book their hotels well in advance as well.
If you cannot find lodging in Tsuruoka City then you can also find lots of hotels in the neighboring city of Sakata. There is a train that you can ride from Tsuruoka Station after the festival. However, keep in mind that you may have a very hard time getting from the festival grounds to the train station in time due to the extreme congestion that occurs when everyone tries to leave the grounds at once.
Quick Info
Cost
Tickets must be purchased in advance; ranging from 3000-5000 yen.
You can contact us to reserve tickets, but keep in mind that we may not be able to book them if they are sold out.
You can however see this for free by watching it from the rice fields of Mt. Haguro or the surrounding fields around Tsuruoka City.
When
Summer, around August (varies each year)
Average Duration
2-3 hours
Address
山形県鶴岡市苗津
Other tips
- This small city is heavily strained by the massive influx of over 70,000 people each year.
- Getting tickets to this event has become progressively harder each year as it skyrockets in popularity. Be sure to purchase your tickets and lodging well in advance!
- Parking is usually located a 20-30 minute walk from the actual firework grounds.
Other Yamagata Firework Festivals
There are many other fireworks held in Yamagata throughout the year which are also well worth the visit. This includes the Sakata Firework Festival, Oishida Festival, and Yamagata Snow Festival.
