What this is
Held against the backdrop of the Tsugaru Strait, this annual summer fireworks festival at Hakodate's Yunokawa Onsen resort launches around 3,000 shells from the lower Matsukura River starting at 7:40 PM. What sets it apart from a standard hanabi show is the traditional water dedication ceremony at Yukura Shrine, where hot spring water is ritually offered before the display — a nod to the onsen town's identity and spiritual roots. Now in its 61st year, it's a well-established fixture of Hakodate's summer calendar.
Who should go
Visitors already staying at Yunokawa Onsen will find this a natural evening highlight. Families, couples, and anyone who enjoys combining a hot spring stay with a summer fireworks display will get the most out of it.
Good to know
This is a free public event with no ticketing required — simply arrive at the lower Matsukura River area before 7:40 PM. Yunokawa Onsen is reached via the Hakodate City Tram (Yunokawa line, terminus stop), a roughly 30-minute ride from central Hakodate; IC cards are accepted on the tram. Many ryokan in the Yunokawa area offer fireworks-view packages or rooftop viewing — worth booking well in advance for the best experience. Bring cash for food stalls, which typically operate at Hokkaido summer festivals. The Yukura Shrine water dedication ceremony takes place before the fireworks and is worth arriving early to witness.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.