When and where is the festival held?

The festival typically takes place in early August. The fireworks are launched from barges in Yokohama Bay, best viewed from the Minato Mirai area and its surrounding parks and waterfronts.

What time do the fireworks start and how long do they last?

The fireworks usually start around 7:00 PM and last for about 90 minutes. It’s advisable to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, as the area gets crowded well before the show begins.

What are the best viewing spots for the fireworks?

Prime viewing locations include Rinko Park, Zo no Hana Park, and the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse area. Some spectators also enjoy the view from nearby hotels and high-rise buildings with a clear line of sight to the bay.

What happens if it rains on the day of the festival?

The Kanagawa Shinbun Fireworks Festival is typically held rain or shine. However, in the event of severe weather conditions, the festival may be postponed or canceled. Updates are usually posted on the official festival website and social media channels.

Colorful fireworks explode in the night sky, creating vibrant patterns of red, green, yellow, purple, and white above a dark landscape, illuminating the scene with bright, festive light.

Colorful fireworks explode in the night sky above a city waterfront, reflecting on the water below. City lights, buildings, and a docked ship are visible in the illuminated urban landscape.

Vibrant fireworks burst in the night sky, with bright pink and white trails radiating outward against a dark background.

Yokohama

Kanagawa Shinbun Fireworks Festival

LocalityPolitical

Last updated May 29, 2026

The Kanagawa Shinbun Fireworks Festival, held annually in Yokohama, is one of Japan's premier pyrotechnic spectacles. This festival lights up the night sky over Minato Mirai, Yokohama's bustling waterfront district, with over 20,000 dazzling fireworks. This vibrant display attracts both locals and tourists, who gather to witness the intricate choreography of colors and patterns set against the stunning backdrop of Yokohama Bay.

Started in 1986, the festival marks its prominence with a unique blend of traditional and contemporary fireworks, showcasing the artistry of Japan's top pyrotechnicians. These experts use advanced techniques to create stunning effects, including smiley faces, intricate designs, and multi-layered bursts that fill the sky with vivid hues. The display is meticulously timed to music, adding a rhythmic pulse to the visual feast and creating an immersive experience.

Beyond the fireworks, the festival also highlights the essence of Japanese summer celebrations. Food stalls line the streets, offering festival-goers a taste of local delicacies like yakisoba and takoyaki. Many attendees dress in colorful yukata, adding to the festive atmosphere. The event not only celebrates the art of fireworks but also fosters a sense of community, drawing people together in a shared appreciation of beauty and tradition.