Why We Celebrate Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival?

Every summer, Tokyo’s sky lights up with a brilliant show of colors. This amazing sight is a Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival that signals the end of the rainy days and welcomes the sunny season. But what’s the story behind this bright celebration? Let’s explore the history, the reason we celebrate it, and how to enjoy this magical event!

When is the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival?

This special event lights up the sky on the last Saturday of July. If you’re thinking about visiting Tokyo then, prepare for a night you won’t forget!

How Did the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival Start?

The festival’s story goes back hundreds of years, to 1732. During that time, Japan was going through a tough period known as the Kyōhō famine. To bring some happiness and calm the spirits, people started lighting fireworks at festivals that honored those who had passed away. These firework shows had two main goals: to remember the ones who were no longer with us and to bring a bit of joy during a hard time.

If we move forward to the Edo period (1603-1868), firework shows became even more loved. Tokugawa Yoshimune, the 8th shogun, is known for starting the Ryogoku Kawaki-no-Kiraki Fireworks near the Ryogoku Bridge. This event is seen as the ancestor of the modern-day festival!

Why Do We Celebrate the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival?

There are several reasons why this Festival holds such a special place in Japanese hearts:

• Marking the End of the Rainy Season: After weeks of gloomy skies and downpours, the fireworks signal the arrival of sunshine and warmer weather. It’s a time to shed the raincoats, open the windows, and embrace the joys of summer!
• A Celebration of Summer: The festival is a vibrant kick-off to the summer season. People gather to enjoy the outdoors, delicious food, and the dazzling display in the sky. It’s a chance to create lasting memories with friends and family.
• A Night of Friendly Competition: The festival is more than just a pretty lightshow! It’s a friendly competition between pyrotechnic companies. Each company strives to outshine the others with their most innovative and breathtaking creations. Imagine the night sky adorned with blooming fireworks like chrysanthemums, cascading willows, and exploding peonies!

What is the Purpose of the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival?

This lightening event has several reasons behind it:

• Community Gathering: It’s a night for the Tokyo community to come together. People of all ages gather along the Sumida River, united by the awe-inspiring spectacle. The atmosphere is electric, filled with anticipation, excitement, and a sense of wonder shared by everyone.
• Honoring Tradition: The festival keeps the tradition of celebrating summer’s arrival alive. It’s a reminder of Tokyo’s rich history and the importance of community spirit.
• A Symbol of Resilience: The festival’s origins during a challenging time serve as a reminder that even after hardship, beauty and joy can prevail.

How Do You Celebrate?

There are many ways to enjoy the magic of this special event:

• Find a Viewing Spot: The most popular spots are along the banks of the Sumida River, especially near Asakusa Station. Be prepared for crowds, or arrive early to secure a good spot.
• Book a River Cruise: For a unique perspective, consider booking a cruise on the Sumida River. You’ll get stunning views of the fireworks and the Tokyo skyline.
• Enjoy the Festival Atmosphere: Grab some delicious street food like takoyaki (octopus balls) or yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Ideas and Simple Ways to Celebrate

If you can’t make it to Tokyo for the festival, you can still celebrate the spirit of summer with some fun ideas:

• Host a Backyard Fireworks Display (with adult supervision!): Light up your backyard with sparklers or small fireworks (following safety guidelines, of course!).
• Have a Summer-Themed Picnic: Pack a basket with your favorite summer treats, spread out a blanket in your backyard or park, and enjoy the warm weather.
• Make Your Own Fireworks Craft: Get creative and make paper fireworks or firework mobiles to decorate your room.

Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival Quotes

Here are some Quotes that really show what this special event is all about:

• “The Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival is a night that fills your heart with the colors and warmth of summer.” – Japanese Proverb: made-up proverb
• “The sound of fireworks and laughter echoing along the Sumida River is a memory I’ll cherish forever.” – Anonymous Festival Goer

Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival Activities

While the main attraction is the stunning show of lights in the sky, there are other fun things you can do during this special event:

• Explore Asakusa: Before the fireworks, visit the nearby Asakusa Sensoji Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple steeped in history.
• Enjoy a Summer Kimono: Immerse yourself in the festive spirit by renting a yukata (a summer kimono) and strolling along the riverbank.
• Take a Kimono Photography Session: Capture the magic of the festival with a professional photoshoot in a traditional kimono.

A Festival for Everyone

The Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival is a party for everyone. It doesn’t matter if you live in the area or if you’re just visiting, this bright event gives you a chance to learn about Japanese culture, feel the spirit of the community, and see the stunning beauty of summer. 

So, if you’re in Tokyo on the last Saturday of July, make sure you don’t miss out on the magic of this special event!