Giant 650 Meter Fireworks! Niigata's Nagaoka Firework Festival 2025

Nagaoka Fireworks Festival Guide

1. Nagaoka Fireworks Festival: History and Concept
2. Nagaoka Fireworks Festival 2025 Schedule
3. How to Access to Venues
4. Highlights of the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival
5. Important Notes about the Nagaoka Fireworks
6. Hidden Viewing Spots for the Nagaoka Fireworks
7. FAQ

Nagaoka Fireworks Festival: History and Concept

The Nagaoka Fireworks Festival is one of Japan's three major fireworks festivals. At its origins a memorial, it's a festival born out the locals's wishes for peace.

On August 1, 1945, before the end of World War II, Nagaoka was bombed, and as much as 80% of the city was destroyed, resulting in 1,488 casualties. To comfort the grieving citizens, the "Nagaoka Revival Festival," which is the predecessor of the Nagaoka Festival Fireworks Festival, was held starting the following year.

This article will introduce the dates, access, highlights, hidden spots, and Japan's unique fireworks culture of the Nagaoka Festival Fireworks Festival held annually in early August in Niigata's Nagaoka City.

Schedule of the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival in 2025

Dates: August 2 - August 3, 2025
Hours: 19:20 - 21:10

For details, please visit the official website of the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival.

Number of launches: 20,000
Location: Shinanogawa Riverbed, downstream of Chosei Bridge, Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture

How to Access the Venues

Nagaoka is a stop on the Joetsu Shinkansen Line, which means that it can be accessed directly from Tokyo Station, with no transfers needed. The ride takes about one hour and 39 minutes and costs 8,580 yen.

We recommend using the JR East Nagano / Niigata Area Pass to save on travel expenses while exploring Nagaoka and its surroundings.

The Nagaoka Fireworks Festival is held at the Shinanogawa Riverbed, downstream of Chosei Bridge in Nagaoka.

From the East Exit of JR Nagaoka Station, you can walk straight along Otemachi, which is directly opposite, for about 30 minutes to reach the right bank's Venue A viewing area. Many visitors walk to the venue, but there are also buses and taxis available.

*Due to traffic restrictions, buses and taxis only provide one-way service.

Access to Venue A

- 30 minutes on foot from Nagaoka Station (JR Echigo Line)
- 20 minutes by car from Kanetsu Expressway Nagaoka IC

Venue B

- 60 minutes on foot from Nagaoka Station (JR Echigo Line)
- 20 minutes by car from Kanetsu Expressway Nagaoka IC

Additionally, since Venue B requires crossing Ote Bridge or Chosei Bridge, please plan your entry time in advance.

*Please check the venue map here.

Highlights of the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival

At the opening of the festival, a fully white firework known as Shiragiku ("White Chrysanthemum") will be launched. This serves as a memorial firework for those who lost their lives in the Nagaoka bombing.

Below we feature three other very special fireworks for which the Nagaoka event is renowned.

1. Giant Firework with a Diameter of 650 Meters

Nagaoka Fireworks in 2015

The traditional firework that represents Nagaoka fireworks is the Sanshakudama. The size of the fireworks is based on the diameter of the launching fireball.

This fireball has a diameter of 90 centimeters and weighs 300 kilograms, with a powder usage of up to 80 kilograms! This is currently the maximum weight allowed by law.

This giant fireball blossoms in the sky, creating a magnificent flower with a diameter of up to 650 meters.

2. Diverse Themed Fireworks

Nagaoka Fireworks in 2015
These fireworks are set off from a massive bridge, cascading down the night sky like the Niagara Falls, creating a powerful visual impact.

Additionally, there are fireworks themed around the Nagaoka warlords, such as the Tenchijin fireworks, as well as fireworks commemorating the screening of the movie Flowers in the Sky - The Story of Nagaoka Fireworks, which present challenges that align with contemporary themes.

3. Revival Prayer Fireworks Phoenix

Nagaoka Fireworks in 2015
In 2004, the Nagaoka area was struck by the Chuetsu Earthquake. To pray for recovery, this Revival Prayer Fireworks Phoenix was created.

True to its name, the characteristic light trails resemble a phoenix, launched successively from six parallel launch pads, filling the scene with brilliance in sync with the music performance.

Notes for Viewing the Nagaoka Fireworks

To enjoy the most beautiful fireworks, it is recommended to view them from the designated viewing areas.

All viewing areas for the Nagaoka Fireworks are paid, and there are no free viewing seats.

Without a ticket, you cannot enter the venue, so please take note. Those wishing to watch the fireworks must purchase tickets for the paid viewing areas. For details, please check the ticket information.

You may also consider joining a two-day bus tour, which includes reservations for the fireworks viewing seats, transportation, and accommodations—just show up, making it super convenient!

Hidden Viewing Spots for the Nagaoka Fireworks

However, since the tickets are reserved, there may be some barriers for travelers visiting Japan. Below are some hidden viewing spots where you can enjoy the fireworks, even if these locations are slightly further away from the main venue.

North Right Bank, Waterway Park Area

If you were unable to purchase tickets for the Nagaoka Fireworks, you can try heading to the area from Entrance 16 on the North Right Bank to Waterway Park.

This area generally does not require reserved seating, so you don’t have to worry about showing up last minute. It is worth noting that this is a very popular hidden viewing spot, so finding a good position in advance is crucial.

Waterway Park

About a 15-minute walk from JR Nagaoka Station, Waterway Park is a hidden viewing spot located further downstream from Ote Bridge, perfect for easily enjoying the fireworks.

Echigo Hillside Park

In this vast land with lush grass, Echigo Hillside Park provides a place rich in natural environments for viewing the fireworks. This is a perfect hidden viewing spot for families with children or couples.

Enjoy the Nagaoka Fireworks

Fireworks are an indispensable part of summer in Japan, and the country’s most impressive Nagaoka Fireworks Festival is worth experiencing at least once!

All pictures from Pixta