Chubu · NiigataFireworks
Two summer nights of around 20,000 shells, crowned by a two-kilometre wall of golden fire called the Phoenix.
Overview
The Nagaoka Fireworks Festival, on the banks of the Shinano River in Nagaoka, Niigata, is one of Japan’s three great fireworks festivals. Held over two August nights, it launches roughly 20,000 shells, including the sweeping ‘Phoenix’ sequence that stretches about two kilometres across the sky and enormous three-shaku shells that bloom hundreds of metres wide. Rooted in post-war remembrance, the display carries real emotional weight alongside its scale.
When & Where
The fireworks are held annually on 2 and 3 August, so in 2026 they fall on a Sunday and Monday. Launches take place over the Shinano River, viewed from both banks near central Nagaoka, running roughly from 7:20 to 9:10 pm each night. Nearest station: Nagaoka Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen, about a 30-minute walk from the riverside viewing areas.
Getting There
Nagaoka is a little over 90 minutes from Tokyo on the Joetsu Shinkansen. From Nagaoka Station it is about a 30-minute walk to the river; expect very heavy crowds and follow signed pedestrian routes. Trains back fill quickly after the finale, so check return times in advance or consider staying overnight in the area.
What to Expect
Highlights include the ‘Phoenix’ set piece, launched to music across a vast span of the river, and the giant Sho-Sanjakudama shells that burst into flowers around 600 metres across. Between them are countless choreographed sequences and star mines. The riverside fills with food stalls and a festival mood well before dark.
Tickets & Access
Viewing from public areas along the banks is free but extremely crowded; paid reserved seating is sold in advance and is popular, so book early through the official channels if you want a guaranteed spot. Bring a mat or cushion for ground seating and pack out your rubbish.
Tips for Visitors
Arrive hours early to claim a free spot, or secure paid seats ahead of time. Stake out a position with a clear river view for the wide Phoenix sequence. Beat the post-show crush by leaving slightly before the finale or waiting it out at a nearby food stall.
Access and Map
| Dates | 2–3 August 2026 (~19:20–21:10 each night) |
|---|---|
| Venue | Shinano River banks, Nagaoka City, Niigata |
| Access | Joetsu Shinkansen to Nagaoka Station, ~30 min walk to the river |
| Admission | Free public viewing; paid reserved seating in advance |
| Official site | Nagaoka Matsuri Fireworks (official) |
Source: Nagaoka Matsuri Fireworks (official)
Image: Photo: George N / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0 (license)
