Spectacular summer fireworks! 20,000 fireworks light up the Sumida River✨
, Tokyo's grandest summer ritual is here—the Sumida River Fireworks Festival, lighting up the night sky over Asakusa on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM sharp✨ This is the 49th edition, carrying on the tradition of the "Ryogoku Kawabiraki" that began in 1733 during the Edo period. It is the most prestigious fireworks festival in the Kanto region, and it only happens one night a year.
The main highlight is the 20,000 fireworks launched simultaneously from two venues: the first venue, from downstream of Sakurabashi Bridge to upstream of Kototoibashi Bridge, hosts the annual fireworks master competition, featuring the most exquisite designs that capture the sophisticated "iki" spirit of Edo; the second venue, from downstream of Komagatabashi Bridge to upstream of Umayabashi Bridge, offers a wider view and is the prime spot for capturing both the fireworks and the Tokyo Skytree in one frame🗼 For 90 minutes, fireworks are launched one after another, from "warimono" chrysanthemum shells to "hoshi-san" scattering effects, keeping you glued to the sky.
Recommended viewing spots: For the best shot of the Skytree and fireworks together, choose Azumabashi Bridge or Kototoibashi Bridge; to avoid the crowds, head to Shioiri Park or Higashi-Shirahi Bridge—they are further away, but the sky is open, allowing for panoramic shots; for advanced photographers with tripods, the high-rise public observation decks near Tsukuba Express Asakusa Station are recommended.
You need to secure your spot before 4:00 PM, as most bridges are closed off by 6:00 PM; essentials include a folding seat cushion, a plastic bag (the grass can be damp), mosquito patches, and insect repellent spray; Asakusa Station will be closed for crowd control for about 40 minutes after the event, so you can walk toward Kuramae Station or Oshiage Station to avoid the crush; buy water and rice balls at a convenience store in advance, as the kiosks at the venue will have long lines⛺
📍 Sumida River 1st/2nd Venue, Sumida City, Tokyo 📅 July 25, 2026 (Sat) Regular day; postponed to the following day in case of rain 🕐 7:00 PM — 8:30 PM (1st venue starts at 7:00 PM / 2nd venue starts at 7:30 PM) 🚇 Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Toei Asakusa Line, Asakusa Station