1 Aug Ishinomaki Kawabiraki Festival Fireworks Display

Access

Using public transportation is strongly recommended for accessing the Ishinomaki Kawabiraki Festival Fireworks Display.

Access by Train

Ishinomaki Station (石巻駅) on the JR Senseki Line (JR仙石線) or JR Ishinomaki Line (JR石巻線) is the nearest station. From Ishinomaki Station, it takes approximately 30 minutes on foot to reach the Kitakami River (北上川) (downstream from Kaihoku Bridge (開北橋)), which is the fireworks display venue.

Access by Car

While it takes approximately 15 minutes to reach Ishinomaki city center from the Sanriku Expressway (三陸自動車道) 'Ishinomaki Kanan Interchange (石巻河南IC)', extensive traffic regulations will be in place around the venue on the day of the fireworks display, and severe congestion is expected. No free parking is available, and special paid parking lots are limited and require advance purchase (no same-day sales). Please strictly avoid street parking and unauthorized parking, and cooperate by using public transportation.

For those traveling by train, using an IC card like Suica or Pasmo is convenient for seamless travel. If you have a Japan Rail Pass, please note that it covers JR lines, making train travel to Ishinomaki Station an economical option. (1 USD is approximately 150 JPY).

Be Mindful of the Last Train Home

After the fireworks display concludes, the area around Ishinomaki Station (石巻駅) will be extremely crowded. Please check the times of the last trains on the JR Senseki Line (JR仙石線) and JR Ishinomaki Line (JR石巻線) in advance and plan your actions with plenty of time. Temporary trains may also operate, so please check the official website for the latest information.

Reserved Seating and Tickets

For the 103rd Ishinomaki Kawabiraki Festival Fireworks Display, paid reserved viewing seats are available, allowing you to fully enjoy the fireworks at your leisure.

Types of Reserved Seats

• Table Seats
• Chair Seats
• Photographer Seats
• Non-reserved Seats (on the embankment)

How to Purchase Tickets

Tickets can be purchased at the Ishinomaki Chamber of Commerce and Industry (石巻商工会議所) counter or via Ticket Pia (チケットぴあ). Sales for reserved seats have already begun.

Important Notes

• A ticket is required for ages 4 and above. If a seat is needed for children aged 3 or younger, a ticket is also required.
• Pets are not permitted.
• There is no free parking available.
• In the event of the fireworks display being canceled, refunds will be issued.

Please check the official Ishinomaki Kawabiraki Festival website for more details.

Hidden Gem Spots

For those who wish to enjoy the fireworks while avoiding crowds, here are a few recommended hidden gem spots.

• Hiyoriyama Park (日和山公園) Hiyoriyama Park, located on a hill offering panoramic views of Ishinomaki city center, is an excellent spot to view the entire fireworks display from above. Although it's a bit far, it's recommended for those who want to appreciate the fireworks in a romantic atmosphere.

• Around Kawamachi Open Park (かわまちオープンパーク) Kawamachi Open Park, developed along the Kitakami River (北上川), is relatively close to the venue. While you can still feel the power of the fireworks, it may be less crowded than the reserved seating area. However, many food stalls (yatai) are expected to set up on the day, creating a lively atmosphere.

• Near Shohoji Temple (称法寺) Similar to Hiyoriyama Park, the area near Shohoji Temple, also located on a hill, is known as a hidden gem spot where you can get a beautiful view of the fireworks. As car access is limited, you might be able to enjoy the display in relative tranquility.

• Around Ishinomori Manga Museum (石ノ森萬画館) (Time-limited) The Ishinomori Manga Museum is close to the fireworks launch site, promising a powerful view of the display. However, on the day of the fireworks festival, the entire Nakaze (中瀬) area where the museum is located will be restricted from 3:00 PM onwards. Therefore, you will need to enjoy the daytime events or visit earlier to view the fireworks from outside the restricted zone.

These spots are based on information from previous years. They may not be accessible depending on the situation and traffic regulations on the day, so it is recommended to check the latest information in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What happens if the fireworks display is rained out? A. The fireworks display will proceed in light rain, but in case of severe weather, it will be postponed to the following day, Sunday, August 2. If postponed, traffic regulations will also be shifted to August 2. Please check the official website for the latest information.

Q. Will there be food stalls around the venue? A. Yes, typically, many food stalls (yatai) set up around the venue each year, adding to the festive atmosphere. You can enjoy local gourmet food and more.

Q. Are there trash cans at the venue? A. The general rule is to take your trash home with you. We kindly ask for your cooperation in maintaining environmental cleanliness.