Niigata Prefecture is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant festivals. Among these festivities, firework displays hold a special place, drawing both locals and tourists alike. The summer sky in Niigata is ablaze with mesmerizing colors and dazzling patterns as fireworks light up the night. Here are the top four firework displays as recommended by the locals of Niigata.

Shirone Kite Festival fireworks:

• First Saturday in June.
• Niigata City, Minami Ward

Shirone area in Niigata City boasts a fun and unique tradition. For 300 years local residents fly huge kites (5 meters by 7 meters) across the river and battle them to the death! Skill and enthusiasm of the teams are just as important as the conditions of weather and wind on the day. But win or lose, Saturday night of the festival breathtaking firework displays are held over the river and surrounding rice fields.

Gion Kashiwazaki Festival:

• Typically held in late July.
• Kashiwazaki City

Kashiwazaki, a coastal city in Niigata, hosts a remarkable fireworks festival renowned for its innovative use of cutting-edge pyrotechnics and creative designs. The event showcases various themed firework displays, including stunning animal shapes, cascading waterfalls of light, and heartwarming messages that illuminate the night sky. The picturesque setting by the Sea of Japan adds to the allure of this festival.

Photo by @takashi5868

Nagaoka Fireworks Festival:

• August 2nd and 3rd
• Nagaoka City

The festival features over 20,000 fireworks launched over the Shinano River, creating an awe-inspiring display that reflects off the water’s surface. The event is steeped in history, dating back several hundred years. In 1946, the festival was expanded. The fiery displays now pay tribute to the victims of World War II and celebrate the rebuilding of Niigata (which was severely damaged during the fighting).

As this festival is considered 1 of the top 3 Firework Displays in the country, advance tickets are required.

Photo by @standinglook

Katagai Festival

• Held in the beginning of September for 2 days
• Ojiya City

The Katagai Festival showcases a charmingly local tradition where residents sponsor firework launches to commemorate significant life events such as birthdays, marriages, and births. Against the backdrop of a small mountain, shaped like a folding screen, the fireworks produce an exhilarating explosion sound, echoing through the surroundings and enhancing the experience. The highlight of the festival is the grand finale featuring the “Ball,” a colossal firework twice the size of regular ones, launched at 10 pm, captivating spectators with its awe-inspiring display.

Photo by @qaz.sk

Niigata Prefecture’s firework displays epitomize Japan’s rich cultural legacy and commitment to artistic flair, offering a diverse range of captivating experiences. Amidst the grandeur of larger events, locals hold a special affection for the intimate charm of their hometown festivals, which unfold almost every weekend and warmly welcome visitors from afar. If you’re in Niigata this summer, don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the magic of these community celebrations.