Go Tokyo Your Experience
Summer in Japan is synonymous with festivals and fireworks displays. Besides watching professional fireworks shows, citizens can also buy fireworks from local shops and enjoy them with friends and family. If you’re visiting Japan during summer, experiencing this tradition is a must. However, there are important rules and etiquette to follow to ensure a safe and respectful experience.
From the film “Even If I Forget You”
Due to legal restrictions on fireworks in many countries, the idea of setting off fireworks is often exciting for many. In Japan, apart from fireworks festivals, many shops sell fireworks during summer, and they are readily available in convenience stores. However, fireworks cannot be set off just anywhere. Observing some basic etiquette and rules is essential to avoid disturbing residents or breaking laws.
Preparation Checklist:
- A bucket filled with water
- Trash bags
- Candles or incense sticks
Image from X @big2amamiten
12 Key Fireworks Safety Tips and Etiquette in Japan:
- Read and Follow Instructions: Always read and follow the instructions on the fireworks.
- Do Not Aim at People or Buildings: Never point fireworks at others or at structures, and avoid lighting them near flammable materials.
- Fire-Resistant Clothing: Be cautious about clothing. Avoid wearing items that can easily catch fire, like lace skirts or synthetic fabrics.
- Handheld Fireworks Safety: When using handheld fireworks, be mindful of where your hands are placed.
- Avoid in Strong Winds: Do not light fireworks in strong wind conditions.
- Water for Fire Extinguishing: Have water ready to extinguish any potential fires.
From the film “Because You Gave Your Heart to Me”
- Adult Supervision: Minors should only light fireworks under adult supervision.
- Proper Lighting Technique: Light fireworks at the correct fuse point using the appropriate method.
- Keep Face and Hands Away: When lighting tube-style fireworks, do not put your face or hands near the opening. Do not look into the tube if the firework goes out.
- Maintain Safe Distance: Keep at least a 5-meter distance from lit fireworks.
- Use Candles or Incense: Light fireworks with candles or incense sticks instead of directly using a lighter.
- Do Not Overload or Disassemble: Avoid lighting too many fireworks at once and never disassemble them, as this is extremely dangerous.
Common Locations in Tokyo for Fireworks:
Due to some people setting off fireworks late at night and leaving debris, many local governments have posted “No Fireworks After Dark” signs in parks and beaches, reducing the number of places where fireworks can be enjoyed. The Japan Fireworks Association advises choosing appropriate times and locations to avoid causing disturbances, especially with louder fireworks. Also, be mindful of the direction and wind to prevent fireworks and smoke from entering residential areas.
From the film “Ride the Unicorn”
Five Recommended Firework Locations in Tokyo:
Inokashira Park
Handheld fireworks are allowed, but firecrackers and rocket fireworks are prohibited. There are five designated areas: near the outdoor stage, the garden southwest of Triangle Square, by the pond near the local safety center, the garden path west of the play area, and near the second park square.
Permit period: From June to mid-October, until 10 PM (daytime fireworks are not allowed).
Address: 1-18-31 Gotenyama, Musashino, Tokyo
Access: About a 5-minute walk from Kichijoji Station on the JR Chuo Line and Keio Inokashira Line.
Arakawa Riverbank
Handheld fireworks are allowed, but firecrackers and rocket fireworks are prohibited.
Permit period: All year round, until 10 PM.
Address: Senju-Ogawacho, Adachi-ku, Tokyo
Access: About a 15-minute walk from Kitasenju Station on the JR Tobu Line, Hibiya Line, and Tsukuba Express Line.
Horikiri Waterfront Park
Handheld fireworks are allowed, but fireworks that produce loud noises or large amounts of smoke are prohibited.
Permit period: Until 10 PM.
Address: 1-12 Horikiri, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo
Access: About a 15-minute walk from Horikiri Shobuen Station on the Keisei Electric Railway.
Heiwa no Mori Park
Handheld fireworks are allowed, but loud fireworks, firecrackers, and rocket fireworks are prohibited. There are three designated areas: the sandy area around the waterside square, the north side of the dog park, and the square with jumping play equipment.
Permit period: Until 10 PM.
Address: 3-37-78 Arai, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
Access: About a 5-minute walk from Numabukuro Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line.
Sumida Park
Handheld fireworks are allowed, but loud fireworks, firecrackers, and rocket fireworks are prohibited. Fireworks should be set off away from playground equipment, in the park square, and not on lawns, planting areas, or rubber surfaces.
Permit period: Until 9 PM.
Address: 1, 2, 5 Mukojima, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
Access: About a 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station on the Tobu Skytree Line, Toei Asakusa Line, and Tokyo Metro Ginza Line.
By following these guidelines and choosing the right locations, you can enjoy the tradition of fireworks safely and respectfully in Japan.