Summer Fireworks Festivals 花火
Hanabi displays throughout Japan in summer
Originally used to ward off evil spirits, fireworks (hanabi) have a long history in Japan. Hundreds of firework displays are held throughout the country, mainly during the summer holidays in July and August.
Fireworks festivals tend to bring a convivial atmosphere with people dressed in yukata (summer cotton kimono) and streets lined with food and game stalls.
Traffic congestion goes with the territory, especially at major displays like Tōkyō’s Sumida River Fireworks (last Saturday of July) and Osaka’s Tenjin Matsuri Fireworks (25 July).