Tohoku · AkitaFireworks
Japan’s top fireworks makers compete shell for shell over the Omono River in the country’s most prestigious pyrotechnic showdown.
Overview
The National Fireworks Competition at Omagari is one of Japan’s big three fireworks events and arguably its most serious contest, where the nation’s leading pyrotechnicians vie for the Prime Minister’s Award. Held on the banks of the Omono River in Daisen City, it features rare daytime fireworks as well as a spectacular evening programme, with each maker unveiling an original creative shell. The technical quality here is considered the highest in the country.
When & Where
The 2026 competition, the 98th, takes place on August 29 along the Omono River in Daisen City (Omagari). Daytime fireworks run roughly 17:10 to 18:00, followed by the main evening competition from about 19:00 to 21:30. Nearest station: JR Omagari Station.
Getting There
Omagari is reached by the Akita Shinkansen, and the riverside venue is around a 30-minute walk from the station. Expect very heavy crowds and special train timetables on the day; plan your return journey in advance, as trains fill quickly after the finale.
What to Expect
- One of Japan’s three great fireworks competitions
- Top pyrotechnicians competing for the Prime Minister’s Award
- Around 18,000 shells across the programme
- Rare daytime fireworks using coloured smoke
- An original ‘creative’ competition shell from each entrant
Tickets & Access
Every viewing area inside the venue is ticketed, with no free seating and no same-day sales for the August competition. Buy tickets well in advance, and note that sales have been limited to within Japan.
Tips for Visitors
Because seating is paid and sells out, arrange tickets early. Bring a cushion, rain gear and a torch, and study the departure options before the show ends to avoid the worst of the post-event crush.
Access and Map
| Dates | August 29, 2026 (daytime from ~17:10, evening from ~19:00) |
|---|---|
| Venue | Omono River banks, Daisen City (Omagari), Akita |
| Nearest station | JR Omagari Station |
| Access | Akita Shinkansen to Omagari, then ~30 min walk to the river |
| Admission | Paid seating only (advance tickets; no same-day sales) |
| Official site | Omagari Hanabi Official Site |
Source: Omagari Hanabi Official Site
Image: Photo: Unknown / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/)
