The 67th Itabashi Fireworks Festival

Summary

Held on the Arakawa riverbed (Itabashi side) every August 1, this is one of the largest fireworks shows in Tokyo. From 7 to 8:30 pm, about 15,000 shells rise from both banks when counted together with the Toda Bridge Fireworks held simultaneously across the river in Saitama. The program ranges widely, from 'artistic shells' built by Japan's leading pyrotechnists to the shaku-goshaku, among the biggest single shells in Tokyo, and the closing wide starmine 'Sky Niagara'. Launch sites sit close to the viewing areas, so you feel each boom in your chest. Crowds of around 550,000 are expected and free viewing spots get contested from early afternoon. The venue has no parking, so come by train.

Overview

A summer tradition now in its 67th year, the Itabashi Fireworks Festival fills the Arakawa riverbed in northern Tokyo with roughly 15,000 shells between 7 pm and 8:30 pm — one of the largest displays in the city. Its signature is the simultaneous show across the river: Toda City's Toda Bridge Fireworks Festival in Saitama, so shells rise alternately from both banks and the night sky stays lit wherever you stand along the riverbed. The program is varied, featuring 'artistic shells' crafted by Japan's top pyrotechnists and the shaku-goshaku, one of the largest shells fired in Tokyo, before the finale 'Sky Niagara', a wide starmine that spreads across the river. Because the launch sites sit close to the viewing areas, the deep thump of each launch is part of the experience. With around 550,000 visitors expected, plan to arrive 2-3 hours before the start to claim a good free spot along the bank. Reserved paid seating is the surer option and should be bought in advance. There is no parking at the venue, so travel by train: about 20 minutes on foot to the paid-seat areas from Hasune or Nishidai (Toei Mita Line) or Ukima-Funado (JR Saikyo Line), or to the free area from Takashimadaira (Toei Mita Line). Check the official website for the latest information.

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