Sumida River Fireworks Festival 2024: Tokyo Travel Tips
Every summer, the Sumida River Fireworks Festival is held, an event that beautifully colors the night sky of Tokyo. This is one of the most traditional fireworks festivals in Japan, dating back to the Edo period. In this blog, we will introduce the history, highlights, and recommended viewing spots of the Sumida River Fireworks Festival.
Table of Contents
History and Origin
The origin of the Sumida River Fireworks Festival dates back to 1733. At that time, the 8th shogun, Tokugawa Yoshimune, set off fireworks as part of the "Ryogoku Kawabiraki" festival to comfort the people suffering from epidemics and famine and to pray for the extermination of evil spirits. This traditional event has continued since the Edo period and has been loved by many people, although its form has changed with the changing times.
Features of the Festival
The Sumida River Fireworks Festival is held on the last Saturday of July every year. Approximately 20,000 fireworks are launched from both banks of the Sumida River, coloring the night sky of Tokyo in spectacular fashion. There are two launch sites: the first site is located downstream of Sakura Bridge, and the second site is located downstream of Komagata Bridge. A wide variety of fireworks are launched one after another, attracting spectators.
Schedule for 2024
Saturday, July 27, 2024, 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
In the event that the event cannot be held due to inclement weather, etc., it will be canceled. In principle, a decision on whether or not the event will be held due will be made at 8:00 a.m. on the day of the event.
Highlights
Gorgeous Fireworks Competition
At the Sumida River Fireworks Festival, pyrotechnicians from all over Japan compete with each other to display the most diverse and creative fireworks. The highlight of the show is the large and spectacular *starmine and other artistic fireworks.
*A fireworks starmine is a type of fireworks that is launched in succession, combining multiple fireworks to create a stunning performance of light and color.
Collaboration with Tokyo Skytree
Visitors can enjoy the lighting up of the Tokyo Sky Tree along with the fireworks. The co-starring of fireworks and the lights of the Skytree is a spectacular sight.
Recommended Spots for Viewing
Sumida Park
Located along the Sumida River, Sumida Park is a popular spot to enjoy the fireworks up close. It is recommended to get there early to get a spot.
Asakusa Area
The area around Sensoji Temple is also a popular viewing spot for viewing the fireworks, and is crowded with many tourists.
Yakatabune
We also recommend viewing from a Yakatabune, which sails along the Sumida River. Reservations are required for this special night, but the view of the fireworks from the boat is exceptional.
Access and Notes
Access
By Train: The nearest stations are Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Honjo-Azumabashi Station on the Toei Asakusa Line, and Ryogoku Station on the JR Sobu Line. Be sure to get there early on the day of the event, as crowds are expected.
Notes
We recommend that you use public transportation on the day of the event, as it will be very crowded. Also, plan to travel early and return home to avoid the crowds.
What to bring: Bring drinks, snacks, picnic blanket, fans, etc. to make your stay more comfortable. Also, be sure to take your trash home with you.
Summary of Sumida River Fireworks Festival 2024
The Sumida River Fireworks Festival is a symbolic summer tradition in Tokyo. Why not spend a special summer moment with family and friends while enjoying the beautiful fireworks of this historic fireworks festival? This event, a fusion of Edo sentiment and modern technology, will surely be an unforgettable memory.
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