August 22 Oshu Fireworks Festival

Access

Traffic restrictions will be in place around the venue on the day of the fireworks festival, and some sections will be closed to vehicles, so please plan accordingly.

By Train

• JR Tohoku Main Line “Mizusawa Station”: Approximately 35 minutes by car.
• JR Tohoku Shinkansen “Mizusawa-Esashi Station”: Approximately 45 minutes by car.

Paid shuttle buses are also scheduled to run from Mizusawa Station to the venue, so using public transportation is recommended. Be sure to check the time of the last train home in advance and allow plenty of time for your return journey.

By Car

• Tohoku Expressway “Mizusawa IC”: Approximately 33 minutes by car.
  • From Mizusawa IC, take National Route 4 and Prefectural Route 236, then continue approximately 23km along National Route 397 toward Oshu Lake.

Approximately 1,000 paid parking spaces are expected to be available around the venue, but spaces are limited and heavy congestion is expected. Consider arriving early or taking the shuttle bus.

Reserved Seating and Tickets

As of July 2026, no official announcement regarding reserved seating for 2026 has been confirmed. Please wait for further official information.

For reference, the following reserved seats were available in 2025:

• Table seating (4 people): 11,000 yen per set (one table, 4 chairs, and one designated parking pass included)
• Chair seating (2 people): 5,500 yen per set (2 chairs and one designated parking pass included)

These reserved seats generally go on sale around late May each year and tend to sell out quickly. Admission to the general viewing area is free.

Lesser-Known Viewing Spots

Because the Oshu Fireworks Festival launches fireworks from a dam, relatively clear views can be expected from open areas around the venue.

1. Isawa River riverbank The riverbank along the Isawa River, which flows immediately beside the east side of Isawa Dam and the venue, is a familiar viewing spot for local residents. By avoiding the crowds at the main venue, you may be able to enjoy the fireworks in a more relaxed setting. However, because it is close to the launch site, arriving early to secure a spot is essential.
2. Slightly distant elevated areas around Isawa Dam Since the fireworks are launched from the top of the dam, elevated areas around the dam or hills a short distance from the venue offer views across the entire display. If you particularly want to see the fireworks reflected upside down in the dam’s lake, viewing from a little farther away is recommended. However, never enter private property or restricted areas.
3. Around the Oshu Isawa Canoe Course Since the festival venue is the parking area near the Oshu Isawa Canoe Course, the open areas around the course may also be suitable for viewing. However, as this area is adjacent to the main venue, crowds are expected here as well. Arrive early and secure a spot with a clear view.

These lesser-known viewing spots are not officially designated viewing areas, so they may not have facilities such as restrooms or food stalls. Bring a picnic sheet, drinks, insect repellent, and other necessities, and enjoy the fireworks while being considerate of others.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Will there be food stalls at the venue? A. Although no specific information about food stalls for 2026 could be found in the search results, fireworks festivals generally have food and drink vendor areas. There have also been reports that previous events featured a wide selection of local cuisine. For the latest information, please check the official website of the Oshu Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Q. How far in advance do traffic restrictions begin? A. As of July 2026, no detailed information has been found regarding the specific start time for traffic restrictions. In many years, traffic restrictions around the venue begin several hours before the fireworks. Before setting out, we recommend checking the official website of the Oshu Chamber of Commerce and Industry as well as local traffic updates.

Q. Are there places to stay near the venue? A. There are not many accommodations around Isawa Dam, the venue, but several hotels are located near JR Mizusawa Station. Since crowds are expected on the day of the fireworks festival, booking early is recommended.