367th Chikugo River Fireworks Display

Summary

The Chikugo River Fireworks Festival in Kurume, Fukuoka, traces its origins to 1650, when fireworks celebrated the completion of the Suiten-gu shrine — more than 360 years of history. Among the largest displays in western Japan, it sends up some 12,000 shells on August 5. Viewing is spread across six areas (Kyomachi, Shinoyama, Komono, Nagatoishi, Miyaki, Tosu) with launches opposite the Kyomachi and Shinoyama sides, and a YouTube livestream is planned for 2026.

Overview

Held on the banks of the Chikugo River, this festival pairs centuries of tradition with one of the biggest shell counts in western Japan: roughly 12,000 rounds across one hour, from 7:40 to 8:40 p.m. on August 5, 2026. Watching areas are divided into six, and the two closest to the launch sites — Kyomachi and Shinoyama — put you nearest to the sound and light of the larger shells. JR Kurume Station is a 10-minute walk away, and a paid shuttle bus runs from Nishitetsu Kurume Station. There is no parking around the venue, so arrive by train and expect crowds around stations and bus stops after the finale. Food stalls line the site — bring cash — and a YouTube livestream is planned for those watching from home.

Details

FAQ