[Shinshu, Nagano] Let's go on an autumn trip! Nagano Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival and the charm of Shinshu

Light art blooming under a clear autumn sky - Nagano Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival

When thinking of Japanese fireworks festivals, many people will picture the midsummer night sky. Walking around the food stalls in yukata and enjoying a night of fun to forget the heat is a typical summer event. However, the Nagano Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival, held every year in late November in Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture, defies common sense. Held in autumn and winter, it is a rare fireworks festival in Japan, and the beauty of the lights that spread in the cool, clear air brings a completely different feeling to that of summer.

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Shusse Fireworks: A place where history and tradition live on

This fireworks festival began in 1899 (Meiji 32). It is said to have originated when the people of Nagano, which prospered as a temple town of Zenkoji Temple, held it in conjunction with the Ebisu Ko market. Since then, it has been a beloved event for over 120 years.

What's unique about this event is that only experienced pyrotechnicians were allowed to participate. It was a stage where fireworks makers competed against each other, and it was a great honor to be recognized there. For this reason, it was called "fireworks of success," and it became a place where young fireworks makers could take flight and become skilled fireworks artists. Even today, it is considered one of the nation's leading competitions in terms of quality.

Provided by: Nagano Chamber of Commerce and Industry

A major feature of the Nagano Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival is that it is held every year on November 23rd (Labor Thanksgiving Day). As autumn deepens and the city begins to prepare for winter, the fireworks are launched, creating a special seasonal feeling.

The venue is Saigawa No. 2 Green Space (west of Nagano Ohashi Bridge). The open riverbed allows spectators to enjoy the fireworks from any angle. Compared to large-scale summer events, the crowds are relatively light, so one of the attractions is that you can enjoy the fireworks in a relaxed atmosphere without having to worry about finding a good spot.

This venue is also unique in that you can enjoy the reflection of light on the river's surface. It is a great spot for photography enthusiasts, and many people come to capture the fantastic moment when the light reflects on the water's surface.

Differences between summer and autumn/winter fireworks

Most fireworks festivals are concentrated in the summer. Because the humidity is high and the night sky is prone to haze, many spectacular and spectacular fireworks are launched. The power of the fireworks is certainly impressive, but the clarity of the air is somewhat weaker in that season.

On the other hand, fireworks held in autumn and winter, such as the Nagano Ebisu Festival, have a clear, dry air, allowing the colors and outlines of light to be clearly displayed. As the temperature drops, there is less air movement, making the fireworks appear brighter.

Provided by: Nagano Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Although the scale is smaller than the big summer fireworks festivals, each and every shot is packed with precision and calculated effects. The combination of vivid light and delicate effects allows you to enjoy highly artistic fireworks, which is one of the charms of autumn and winter.

Artistic production and the appeal of viewing

The Nagano Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival not only features star mines and large fireworks, but also incorporates many fireworks synchronized with music and displays that make use of changing colors. The patterns of light painted in the clear sky are like works of art blooming in the night sky. With each cheer from the audience, a sense of exhilaration spreads, warming the heart even in the cold air.

Provided by: Nagano Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Also, because you'll be watching the fireworks in the cold, it's fun to watch them with a hot drink in hand. Enjoying local food from the food stalls and other local cuisine unique to Nagano will make watching the fireworks on a winter night even more special.

A great location for photos

The Saigawa Riverbed is also an ideal location for taking fireworks photos. The flickering light reflected on the river's surface, the composition of the bridge and fireworks, and the transparency of the night sky all create unique works that cannot be achieved in other seasons. The air is particularly clear in autumn and winter, which means that the photos you take tend to come out colorful.

As a result, many camera enthusiasts, both professional and amateur, visit the area and can often be seen taking pictures in search of their very own unique shot.

Provided by: Nagano Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Along with a trip to Shinshu in autumn

Before and after the fireworks display, you'll want to enjoy sightseeing in Shinshu and the surrounding area. In Nagano City, the majestic Zenkoji Temple is a must-see. This ancient temple with over 1,400 years of history has plenty to see, including a stroll through the temple town on the approach to the temple, where you can experience culture and faith while calming your mind.

If you take a short walk towards Karuizawa, you can enjoy the vibrant scenery of the autumn leaves reflected on the surface of Kumoba Pond, and a stroll through the exotic town of Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza. Feeling the crisp late autumn air while touring cafes and bakeries offers a different charm from watching fireworks.

Furthermore, if you cross the prefectural border and head towards Yamanashi, you can enjoy the contrast between the majestic Mt. Fuji and the autumn leaves from Arakurayama Sengen Park and Lake Fujikawaguchiko. These scenic spots, popular with both domestic and international tourists, add a touch of color that is unique to this season.

The best part of the Nagano Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival is being able to spend a day touring the famous spots of the Shinshu and Koshinshu areas during the day, enjoying the autumn leaves, history, and gourmet food, and then being captivated by the fireworks that signal the beginning of winter on the banks of the Sai River at night. By combining fireworks with sightseeing, you can experience the colors and excitement of the season all at once - this festival is the only place where such a luxurious autumn trip can be realized.

A special night resonating in the autumn sky

The Nagano Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival has a completely different appeal from summer fireworks festivals. The tradition of the historic "Shusse Fireworks," the artistic production that sparkles in the clear air, and the special seasonal feeling of late November - all of these make it a one-of-a-kind experience.

Provided by: Nagano Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Looking up at the night sky in the cold, a moment of light blooms in full bloom. This beauty is a reward that can only be experienced at the beginning of winter. For travelers seeking a quiet and fantastical experience, the Nagano Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival is a hidden gem that is a must-see.

For tour details and reservations, click here