What this is
Marking its 46th edition in 2026, this long-running riverside fireworks festival sends shells bursting over the Inagawa River in Hyogo Prefecture, with displays choreographed to music and a dedicated sequence featuring Itami's mascot character Tamimaru. The grand finale — a cascading effect called the 'Golden Weeping Willow Cascade' — is the centrepiece that draws crowds back year after year. Premium paid seating puts you directly beneath the overhead bursts for the full effect.
Who should go
Families, couples, and anyone who enjoys a classic Japanese hanabi festival with a bit of local character. Those willing to pay for premium seats will get noticeably better views of the overhead displays.
Good to know
Premium viewing seats are typically sold through platforms such as eplus.jp or pia.jp — foreign credit cards are generally accepted on both, and convenience store pickup at Lawson is the most hassle-free option for visitors without a Japanese delivery address. The general standing areas along the riverbank are free but require early arrival to secure a decent spot. Food and drink stalls are standard at events like this, so cash is advisable as many vendors do not accept cards. The festival runs for roughly 1–1.5 hours including the finale. Post-event crowds at Itami Station can be heavy, so consider waiting 20–30 minutes near the venue before heading to the platform.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.