24 Aug Akita Prefecture Fireworks Festivals

100th National Fireworks Competition "Omagari no Hanabi"

Date and Time

The festival is confirmed to be held on Saturday, August 24, 2026. The daytime fireworks segment is scheduled to begin at 5:30 PM, followed by the nighttime fireworks segment at 6:50 PM. This commemorative 100th competition is expected to be even more spectacular than in previous years.

Venue and Access from the Nearest Station

The venue is the Omogawa Riverbank (雄物川河畔) in Daisen City (大仙市), Akita Prefecture (秋田県) (downstream from Omagari Bridge - 大曲橋). The nearest station is Omagari Station (大曲駅) on the JR Ou Main Line (JR奥羽本線) and JR Tazawako Line (JR田沢湖線). From Omagari Station, it takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes on foot to reach the venue. Significant crowds are anticipated on the day of the event, so we recommend allowing ample time for travel. For those with a Japan Rail Pass, this route is covered. You can also use an IC card like Suica for local train travel.

Number of Fireworks and Visitors

Approximately 18,000 fireworks are launched, making this one of Japan's premier fireworks festivals, attracting over 700,000 spectators annually. Elite pyrotechnicians from across the country gather to showcase a wide variety of competitive fireworks, including daytime fireworks, nighttime fireworks, and creative fireworks.

Availability of Paid Seating

A wide array of paid viewing seats is available, including sajikiseki (box seats), table seats, and chair seats. Tickets typically sell out quickly each year, so it is advisable to consider purchasing them as soon as official announcements are made. From the paid seats, you can enjoy the pyrotechnicians' dedicated masterpieces up close and from the best possible locations.

Hidden Gem Viewing Spots

While Omagari no Hanabi can be seen from a wide area, some particularly well-known hidden gem spots include elevated areas slightly away from the venue and embankments along the Omogawa River (雄物川). For instance, areas around Mount Himegamiyama (姫神山) and Daisen City General Park (大仙市総合公園) could offer excellent panoramic views of the entire display. However, as these locations are becoming increasingly popular each year, securing your spot early is crucial.

Google Maps Link for the Venue

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30th Tsuchizakiminato Festival Fireworks Display

Date and Time

The date for 2026 has not yet been announced, but it is typically held on the evening of July 20th, coinciding with the "Tsuchizaki Shinmeisha Festival Float Parade" (土崎神明社祭の曳山行事), which usually takes place from July 20th to 21st. Please await the official announcement.

Venue and Access from the Nearest Station

The venue is around Tsuchizakiminato Port (土崎港) in Akita City (秋田市). The nearest station is Tsuchizaki Station (土崎駅) on the JR Ou Main Line (JR奥羽本線), and it's approximately a 15-minute walk from the station to the venue. You can also take a bus from Akita Station. Both JR Pass holders and those using IC cards like Suica can easily access this area.

Number of Fireworks and Visitors

Approximately 2,000 fireworks are launched, and the event typically attracts around 80,000 visitors annually. The fireworks, launched over the port, create a unique and picturesque atmosphere, with their lights beautifully reflected on the water's surface.

Availability of Paid Seating

Typically, no paid viewing seats are provided for this festival. The focus is on free viewing spaces.

Hidden Gem Viewing Spots

You can enjoy the fireworks from a wide area around Tsuchizakiminato Port (土崎港). In particular, areas around Port Tower Selion (ポートタワー・セリオン) and towards Akita Marina (秋田マリーナ) offer opportunities to enjoy the fireworks alongside the port's night view. However, traffic regulations will be in effect on the day, so using public transportation is advisable.

Google Maps Link for the Venue

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60th Oga Nihonkai Fireworks

Date and Time

The date for 2026 is yet to be determined, but it is typically held in mid-August each year. It often takes place on a Saturday during the Obon holiday period, so keep an eye on official announcements.

Venue and Access from the Nearest Station

Funakawako Port (船川港) in Oga City (男鹿市) is the venue. The nearest station is Funakawako Station (船川港駅) on the JR Oga Line (JR男鹿線), though it's about a 20-minute walk from the station to the venue. On the day of the event, special buses may also operate from Akita Station and Oga Station. JR Pass holders can utilize the JR Oga Line, and IC cards like Suica are also accepted for train travel.

Number of Fireworks and Visitors

Approximately 10,000 fireworks are launched, attracting around 100,000 visitors annually. The fireworks, set against the backdrop of the Sea of Japan (日本海), are captivating due to their grand scale and the powerful sound that echoes across the sea.

Availability of Paid Seating

Paid viewing seats are often provided, with sajikiseki (box seats) being particularly popular. Since you can enjoy the fireworks while feeling close to the sea, we recommend securing your tickets early.

Hidden Gem Viewing Spots

From the coastline around Funakawako Port (船川港) and slightly elevated areas, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Sea of Japan (日本海) interwoven with the fireworks. Areas around the Oga General Tourist Information Center (男鹿総合観光案内所) and towards Shiosezaki (潮瀬崎) are also good options. However, be mindful of traffic regulations and the challenge of securing parking.

Google Maps Link for the Venue

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Tips for Enjoying Fireworks

Here are some tips to help you comfortably enjoy the fireworks festivals in Akita Prefecture.

Securing Your Spot

At popular fireworks festivals, many people start securing their viewing spots early in the morning to get a good location. Especially for "Omagari no Hanabi" (大曲の花火), it is customary to reserve a spot from the day before. Be sure to bring a leisure sheet or a simple tent, and take precautions against heatstroke while securing your spot. However, the rules for reserving spots vary for each festival, so it is important to check the official website in advance.

What to Bring

• Leisure sheet / Folding chair: Convenient for sitting and waiting for extended periods.
• Drinks / Snacks: The area around the venue can get crowded, and stalls often have long queues, so it's reassuring to prepare these in advance.
• Insect repellent spray: As many festivals are held along riverbanks or coastlines, insect protection is essential.
• Towel / Uchiwa (fan): Useful for combating the heat.
• Rain gear: A raincoat or a folding umbrella is advisable in case of sudden weather changes.
• Garbage bags: Taking your trash home is the basic rule. Please cooperate to maintain a beautiful environment.
• Mobile battery: For preventing your smartphone from running out of charge.

Managing Crowds on Your Way Home

After the fireworks festival concludes, the nearest stations and roads become extremely crowded. Especially for Omagari no Hanabi (大曲の花火), entry restrictions may be imposed at JR Omagari Station (JR大曲駅).

• Use public transportation: To avoid traffic jams, using trains or buses is highly recommended. Special trains and buses may operate, so check their schedules in advance. For those with a JR Pass or using an IC card like Suica, this is often the most convenient option.
• Staggered departure: Instead of leaving immediately after the fireworks end, waiting a little while before heading home can help alleviate congestion.
• Accommodation: For large-scale festivals like Omagari no Hanabi, booking accommodation in the surrounding area and returning leisurely the next day is an option. However, early reservations are essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can fireworks festivals be canceled? A. Yes, they may be canceled due to adverse weather conditions (such as strong winds or heavy rain), natural disasters, or prevailing social circumstances. Decisions regarding the holding of the event are usually announced on the official website or social media from late morning to early afternoon on the day of the festival. Always check for the latest information before heading out.

Q. Is it okay to bring pets to a fireworks festival? A. While it varies depending on the type of festival and venue, many fireworks festivals do not recommend bringing pets due to the stress they might experience from crowds and loud noises, as well as consideration for other attendees. Pet accompaniment is almost always restricted in paid seating areas. Please check with the organizers in advance or consider using a pet hotel.

Q. Are there parking facilities near the venue? A. For large-scale fireworks festivals, temporary parking lots may be set up, but their number is limited, and they become extremely crowded. Furthermore, traffic regulations are often implemented around the venue, making access to parking difficult. We highly recommend using public transportation whenever possible. If you plan to come by car, arrive early and consider parking in a location further from the venue, then utilizing shuttle buses or other means of transport.

Q. Can I enjoy the food stalls at the fireworks festival? A. Yes, at many fireworks festivals, various food stalls (屋台, yatai) set up around the venue, enhancing the festive atmosphere. You can enjoy classic street food such as yakisoba (fried noodles), takoyaki (octopus balls), and kakigori (shaved ice). However, popular stalls often have long queues, so allow ample time when planning to visit them.

Q. Is photography allowed at fireworks festivals? A. Personal commemorative photography is generally permitted. However, professional photography involving tripods or reserving a spot may be restricted as it can inconvenience other spectators. Avoid using large equipment, especially in crowded areas, and always be considerate of those around you. Drone photography is prohibited at most festivals for safety reasons.