Nagano National New Fireworks Competition

Access

Using public transportation is recommended for accessing the National New Fireworks Competition.

Access by Train

The nearest station is Kami-Suwa Station (上諏訪駅) on the JR Chuo Main Line (JR中央本線). It's a very short and convenient walk of approximately 8 minutes from Kami-Suwa Station to the lakeside of Lake Suwa. Trains on the JR Chuo Main Line can be busier than usual right after the fireworks end, so plan your travel with ample time. Also, be sure to confirm the last train schedule for your return journey to avoid missing it. (Note: JR Pass, IC cards like Suica, and other regional IC cards are generally accepted on JR lines.)

Access by Car

It's approximately 15 minutes from the Suwa Interchange (諏訪IC) on the Chuo Expressway (中央自動車道). Parking near the lakeside can fill up on fireworks evenings, so allow extra time, and check the official event website in advance for any traffic or parking information.

Paid Seating and Tickets

Because the fireworks are launched over the lake, they can be seen from the lakeside without a ticket. Whether paid viewing seats are offered, and their prices, can differ from round to round and year to year, so check the official Suwako fireworks website before you go.

Hidden Gem Viewing Spots

Since the fireworks are visible over a wide area along Lake Suwa, there are also hidden gem spots where you can enjoy the display while avoiding crowds with a little planning.

1. Tateishi Park (立石公園): This park is located on an elevated area on the eastern side of Lake Suwa (諏訪湖). It is known as a superb scenic spot offering panoramic views of the entire lake and the city, and is even said to have been a model for an anime film. Although it is some distance from the launch site, the collaboration of fireworks reflecting on the lake surface with the night view is exceptional. However, due to its popularity, arriving early to secure a spot is necessary.
2. Suwako Service Area (諏訪湖サービスエリア) (Inbound Lane): This service area is located on the Chuo Expressway (中央自動車道) and offers views overlooking Lake Suwa from an elevated position. Since you can watch the fireworks from the parking lot, it's convenient for those arriving by car. However, the service area itself may become extremely crowded on the day of the event.
3. Okaya Lakeside Park (岡谷湖畔公園): Situated on the western shore of Lake Suwa (諏訪湖), this park is a bit further from the main venue. It tends to be less crowded, offering a chance to enjoy the fireworks in a more relaxed setting. While it's some distance from the launch site, it's recommended for those who wish to appreciate the fireworks along with the lakeside atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When is the 2026 event held? A. The preliminary rounds are on Saturday, September 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2026, and the final is on Saturday, October 31, 2026. Each round lasts about 20 minutes.

Q. Can the fireworks display be canceled? A. Bad weather can change or cancel a round. Please check the official event website for the latest information on the day.

Q. How do I get there? A. The lakeside venue is about an 8-minute walk from Kami-Suwa Station on the JR Chuo Main Line, which is the easiest way to arrive.