Gunma Maebashi Fireworks Festival

Access

Using public transportation to reach the venue is highly recommended.

• Access from JR Maebashi Station (JR前橋駅): From JR Maebashi Station, it takes approximately 40 to 50 minutes to walk to the venue. Annually, shuttle buses may operate on the day of the festival, so please check the official website for the latest information. Utilizing a shuttle bus can potentially allow for smoother travel closer to the venue, even during peak congestion.
• Access from JR Shin-Maebashi Station (JR新前橋駅): From JR Shin-Maebashi Station, it also takes approximately 40 to 50 minutes to walk to the venue. Shuttle bus operations may also be considered for this route.

Important Notes on Congestion: On the day of the festival, extensive traffic restrictions will be implemented around the venue. We strongly advise against coming by private car and recommend using public transportation. If you are traveling by train, consider using an IC card like Suica or Pasmo, or your Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) if applicable, for smooth travel. Particularly after the festival concludes, stations and bus stops become extremely crowded, so please allow ample time for your journey and pay close attention to the last train times for your return. Typically, the last trains towards JR Maebashi Station and Shin-Maebashi Station are scheduled for the early 11 PM range, but always confirm this in advance.

Paid Seating and Tickets

As of July 2026, information regarding paid seating for the 2026 event has not yet been announced.

Annually, the Maebashi Fireworks Festival typically offers paid viewing seats (有料観覧席) to ensure a comfortable fireworks viewing experience. In the past, the following types of seats were available:

• Chair Seating (イス席): These seats are relatively affordable and allow you to sit and enjoy the fireworks at your leisure.
• Table Seating (テーブル席): Designed for multiple people, these seats allow you to enjoy the fireworks while dining and drinking.
• Sheet Seating (シート席): These seats offer a spacious area where you can lay down a leisure sheet and view the fireworks freely.

Prices vary depending on the seat type, but as a guideline, they are often sold for approximately 2,000 JPY to 5,000 JPY per person (roughly $13 to $33 USD, based on 1 USD ≈ 150 JPY). Tickets are typically sold starting about 1.5 to 2 months before the festival at various ticket agencies and convenience stores. Popular seats tend to sell out quickly, so consider purchasing early once the official announcement is made. Please check the official Maebashi Fireworks Festival website for the latest information.

Hidden Gem Spots

While the Maebashi Fireworks Festival can be viewed from a wide area along the Tone River (利根川), here are three hidden gem spots (穴場スポット) where you can enjoy the fireworks while avoiding the worst of the crowds.

1. Gunma Prefectural Office 32nd Floor Observation Hall (群馬県庁32階展望ホール): Located in Otemachi (大手町), Maebashi City (前橋市), the 32nd floor of the Gunma Prefectural Office (群馬県庁) features a free observation hall. From a height of over 100 meters above ground, you can enjoy a distant view of the fireworks alongside the nightscape of Maebashi City. While it lacks the immediate impact due to its distance from the launch site, it is recommended for those who wish to leisurely observe the overall spectacle. However, as it is a popular spot, you may need to secure a viewing position early.

2. Shikishima Park Area (敷島公園周辺): The area around Shikishima Park (敷島公園), located a short distance from the venue, is also known as a relatively less crowded hidden gem. Particularly from the spacious lawn areas within the park, there are few obstructions to the rising fireworks, allowing for a relaxed viewing experience. While there is parking available within the park, traffic restrictions and the high likelihood of it being full on the day of the event mean it's advisable to use public transportation and walk a short distance from the park towards the venue.

3. Tone River Cycling Road (利根川サイクリングロード) (Downstream from Owatari Bridge): The Tone River Cycling Road, extending downstream from Owatari Bridge (大渡橋), can also be a relatively hidden spot. Although it is a bit further from the launch site, there are fewer buildings obstructing the view, and you might even enjoy the fireworks reflected on the river's surface. However, some areas may have limited street lighting, so please be careful where you step. Also, confirm in advance that the area is outside any traffic restriction zones and prioritize safety when viewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Under what circumstances might the fireworks festival be canceled? A. The Maebashi Fireworks Festival will proceed in the event of light rain. However, it will be canceled in cases of severe weather (such as strong winds, heavy rain, or thunderstorms). Cancellation may also occur if it is deemed difficult to ensure safety, for instance, due to rising river levels. Decisions regarding the event's feasibility are typically announced on the official website by the morning of the festival day.

Q. Is there parking available near the venue? A. On the day of the festival, extensive traffic restrictions will be implemented around the venue, making most parking unavailable. While temporary parking lots may be set up annually, they are limited in number and become extremely crowded. We strongly recommend using public transportation.

Q. Will food and drinks be sold at the venue? A. Annually, numerous food stalls (露店) typically set up around the venue, selling items such as yakisoba, takoyaki, and shaved ice. Food and drinks may also be available for purchase within the paid seating areas. However, as it gets very crowded, it might be a good idea to purchase items in advance or consider bringing your own. Please ensure you take all your trash home with you.