The 74th Rokaku Lake Floating Lanterns and Fireworks Festival

Summary

On the Saigawa riverbed in Shinshu-Shinmachi, Nagano City, the 74th Rokaku Lake toro-nagashi and fireworks run for two hours from 19:00 on Saturday, August 15, 2026. Some 4,000 shells launch while lanterns drift down from upstream on the Saigawa, making a rare event where lantern light on the water and fireworks overhead play at once. Signature jingisukan lamb barbecue is sold in front of the flood-control hall, with food stalls along the riverside path. From JR Nagano Station it is about 45 minutes by bus; rain goes ahead, severe weather cancels.

Overview

A Shinshu-Shinmachi summer tradition with an unusual double bill: fireworks and floating lanterns in the same evening. Lanterns released upstream drift onto the water of Lake Rokaku while shells burst overhead, and the venue stretches around Shinmachi-bashi and the Takefusa riverbed. Vendors sell the town's jingisukan and drinks in front of the flood-control hall, and food stalls line the riverside walk. From JR Nagano Station, take the Alpico bus for Shinshu-Shinmachi about 45 minutes and get off at Shinmachi, right by the venue — but note that no return buses to Nagano Station run after the event, so plan your way home in advance. Parking offers 550 paid, reservation-only spaces via the official website. Rain does not stop the show; severe weather cancels it — check the site on the day.

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