What this is
The Nagaoka Kome Hyakutawara Festival is a celebration held in Nagaoka, Niigata Prefecture, combining fireworks, food, and live music in a single festive event. Nagaoka is one of Japan's most celebrated cities for fireworks, home to the legendary Nagaoka Fireworks Festival, and this event draws on that proud pyrotechnic heritage. The festival also highlights Niigata's world-renowned rice culture — the region produces some of Japan's finest koshihikari rice — making food a central pillar of the experience. Scheduled for May 2026, it offers a spring celebration that blends local agricultural pride with entertainment and spectacle.
Who should go
This festival is ideal for visitors who want to experience authentic regional Japanese culture beyond the major cities, combining the thrill of fireworks with local food and live music. Food lovers will appreciate the chance to sample Niigata's celebrated rice-based cuisine and local specialties in a festive outdoor setting. Music fans and families looking for a relaxed, community-atmosphere event will feel right at home. Arrive early to secure a good spot for both the food stalls and the fireworks viewing area.
Good to know
Ticket and booking details for this event have not yet been fully announced — check local event listings and convenience store ticket platforms such as Lawson Ticket (l-tix.jp) or eplus.jp as the date approaches, as both accept foreign credit cards. Niigata's May weather can be mild but changeable, so bring a light jacket and comfortable shoes suitable for outdoor ground. Cash is strongly recommended for food stall purchases, as many vendors at regional Japanese festivals do not accept cards. Arriving at least an hour before the fireworks portion begins is advisable to claim a good viewing spot, as Nagaoka locals take their fireworks seriously and crowds can build quickly.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.