Hirado Port Summer Festival Fireworks Display, Nagasaki

Held every year in Hirado, Nagasaki Prefecture, the “Hirado Port Summer Festival Fireworks Display” is a major event that brings Hirado’s summer nights vividly to life. Around 2000 fireworks launched over the water from Hirado Port blend beautifully with the scenery of this historic port town, with illuminated Hirado Castle providing a stunning backdrop. The fireworks display serves as the finale of the Hirado Port Summer Festival, which also features a variety of fun mini-events and fills the entire venue with a festive atmosphere.

Event Overview

Venue and Map

The main venue for the Hirado Port Summer Festival Fireworks Display is Hirado Port Exchange Plaza, located beside Hirado Port. From the plaza, you can enjoy a close-up view of Hirado Castle, a symbol of Hirado. When the fireworks are launched, the illuminated castle creates a magical scene in the background. Enjoy the spectacular fireworks to your heart’s content in the port’s open, relaxing atmosphere.

View the venue on Google Maps

Access

The venue for the Hirado Port Summer Festival Fireworks Display can be reached by either public transportation or car.

By train or bus
From Matsuura Railway’s Tabira-Hiradoguchi Station, take a Saihi Jidosha bus bound for “Hirado Sanbashi.” The ride takes approximately 15 minutes to the final stop, “Hirado Sanbashi.” The venue is just a short walk from the bus stop.

By car
The venue is approximately 30km from the Sasebo-Sasazaki IC via National Routes 204 and 383. Traffic restrictions will be in place around the venue on the day of the event, so allow plenty of extra time. In particular, some vehicle entry restrictions will apply around the venue before and after the fireworks launch period.

Parking
Parking is available around the venue, including free parking for approximately 800 vehicles. However, please note that the Hirado Port Exchange Plaza parking lot accommodates 66 vehicles and may sometimes charge 100 yen for every 30 minutes after the first 2 hours, with a maximum 24-hour fee of 1500 yen. As heavy traffic is expected, arriving early is recommended.

Be careful not to miss the last train or bus
The fireworks are scheduled to end at around 21:00. If you are using public transportation, check the return bus and train schedules in advance so you do not miss your connection.

Paid Seating and Tickets

As a rule, no paid viewing areas are provided for the Hirado Port Summer Festival Fireworks Display. All seats are free of charge, so you can watch the fireworks at no cost. For this reason, it is recommended that you arrive early to claim a good spot.

Recommended Viewing Spots

Here are several less-crowded spots where you can enjoy the Hirado Port Summer Festival Fireworks Display more comfortably.

1. Around Hirado Castle
   Since Hirado Castle forms the backdrop to the fireworks, you can enjoy the beautiful contrast between the fireworks and the illuminated castle from within the castle grounds or the surrounding area. The view of the fireworks from the castle’s keep is especially spectacular.
2. Sakikata Park
   Located on a hill a short distance from Hirado Port Exchange Plaza, Sakikata Park offers an excellent vantage point overlooking the entire port. It is recommended for those who want to avoid the crowds and watch the fireworks in a more relaxed setting.
3. Around Hirado Bridge (mainland side, Tabira Park)
   Hirado Bridge is somewhat far from the venue, but from Tabira Park on the mainland side, you can see the bridge and fireworks together. Hirado Bridge is particularly beautiful when illuminated at night, and the combination with the fireworks makes for excellent photographs. However, because it is some distance from the venue, the fireworks may feel somewhat less powerful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Will food stalls be set up around the venue?
A. Every year, the Hirado Port Summer Festival features many food stalls around the venue, creating a lively atmosphere. You can enjoy local cuisine while taking in the festive spirit.

Q. Where can I check whether the fireworks display will be held?
A. The event may be postponed or canceled due to weather or other circumstances. Before heading out, check the official website or social media accounts of the Hirado City Tourism Division (Phone number: 0950-22-9140) or the Hirado City Tourism Association (Phone number: 0950-23-8600) for the latest information.

Q. Are there accommodations nearby?
A. Hirado City has many hotels and traditional inns close to the fireworks venue. In particular, some accommodations around Hirado Port offer plans that guarantee a room with a view of the fireworks, so early reservations are recommended.