Omagari Fireworks (Daisen City, Akita Prefecture)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Omagari Fireworks (National Fireworks Competition) is one of Japan's leading fireworks festivals, held annually in Daisen City (formerly Omagari Town), Akita Prefecture. It is said to have begun around 1910, evolving from a local festival into a national competition. It is characterized as a "competition" where pyrotechnicians from all over the country compete with each other, and large, sophisticated firework displays are launched one after another, including shakudama (large fireworks), o-dama (large sized fireworks), and creative starmines. Due to the high quality of the fireworks and the high level of their presentation, it is often praised as "Japan's best fireworks festival," and attracts many spectators from both Japan and abroad. The venue is on the banks of the Omono River, and the impressive displays that make use of the night sky are an attractive feature.
Highlights
- National Fireworks Competition: Pyrotechnicians from all over the country compete against each other in a set of designated tasks, allowing you to see a wide variety of highly polished fireworks. The final performance is a spectacular one.
- The power of large and shakudama fireworks: The large diameter fireworks (such as shakudama) create a loud popping sound and rings of light that envelop the entire venue.
- Creative fireworks (themed fireworks): Fireworks set to music or a story leave a strong visual and emotional impact.
- Wide Starmine Finale: A series of fireworks that spread across the entire riverbank is a spectacular sight that erupts in cheers from the entire venue.
– Daytime events and surrounding atmosphere: There are stalls, merchandise sales, and fireworks-related exhibits (such as fireworks information), so you can enjoy walking around the area not just on the day of the fireworks.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Omagari Station (Akita Shinkansen/Ou Main Line). The venue can be reached on foot or by shuttle bus from Omagari Station.
- Train: We recommend taking the train as it will be very crowded on the way back. There may be extra trains and additional services on the day of the event, but it will be difficult to secure a seat, so please make sure to book your round-trip ticket and reserved seat in advance.
- Shuttle bus: On the day of the event, shuttle buses (both paid and free) will run between Omagari Station and the venue, but there will be long lines. Buses are prone to congestion and delays, so please allow yourself plenty of time.
- Cars and Parking: Traffic and parking restrictions are strict around the venue, and most public parking lots are unavailable. While you may be able to use official temporary parking lots (application required in advance) or nearby park and rides, we strongly recommend using public transportation.
- Walking: If you are walking from Omagari Station to the venue, be aware of crowds and long walks. In the summer, take measures to prevent heatstroke. There will be detours and traffic restrictions to the venue, so please follow the instructions of staff.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Fireworks viewing only: Half a day to a full day, including travel time (from early evening to the end of the night display). The display is held at night, so you often have to wait a long time before it starts.
- If you plan to take it easy and do some sightseeing at the same time: We recommend a two-day, one-night stay. To avoid the crowds on the way home after the event, it is a good idea to stay near the venue.
- Arrival time: To secure a good viewing spot, it is best to arrive in the early afternoon (noon to early evening). There will be a battle for a spot, especially in the non-paid viewing areas.
Nearby spots
– Omagari Fireworks Museum/Historical Museum (if there is a facility that teaches about the history and techniques of fireworks, please list it here) *Please check opening hours in advance
- Kakunodate (Samurai Residences): Approximately 30-60 minutes by train from Omagari. Also famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot.
– Lake Tazawa and Nyuto Onsen: A tourist destination where you can enjoy nature and hot springs. Accessible from the venue by car or public transport (travel time may be required).
– Yokote (Kamakura): Known for the winter scenery of the Yokote Kamakura, this is an interesting spot to visit in different seasons.
- Local cuisine: There are restaurants in the surrounding area where you can enjoy Akita's local cuisine, such as Hinai Jidori chicken, Kiritanpo, and Inaniwa udon.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Every year, a huge number of spectators gather around the venue. There are long lines for toilets and food and drink booths, and the return journey is also very crowded, so please allow yourself plenty of time. Please be especially careful if you are traveling with children or are elderly.
- Seat reservation and etiquette: Please observe proper etiquette when reserving a spot on the riverbank. Do not encroach on other people's spaces, always take your trash with you, and avoid noise and other nuisances.
- Tickets: Paid seats usually sell out early every year. Please purchase tickets in advance from official sales outlets or trusted outlets. Reselling or purchasing tickets unofficially may lead to problems.
- What to wear and bring: Even in summer, it can get cool at night, so bring a jacket. It's also useful to bring insect repellent, a portable fan, drinks, and a picnic blanket (unless you're using a paid seat). In case of rain, bring an umbrella or raincoat (a compact raincoat is recommended as umbrellas can obstruct visibility behind the train).
- Safety and Prohibited Items: In most cases, bringing fireworks or other open flames, flying drones, or using firearms is prohibited at the venue. Please follow the instructions of staff and signs.
- Traffic restrictions: Large-scale traffic restrictions will be in place in the surrounding area on the day of the event. If you are coming by car or driving around the venue, please check the information in advance and follow the restrictions.
- Health management: Some people may become ill due to long waiting times and the heat. Don't forget to replenish with fluids and salt, take precautions against sunburn, and take measures against heatstroke.
- Accommodation: Accommodations in the area fill up quickly during the tournament, so if you are considering staying overnight, make your reservation early.
(supplement)
The event schedule, access, paid seat sales information, operation on the day (special trains and shuttle buses), and parking details often change every year, so be sure to check the latest information on the official website, announcements from Daisen City, and transportation information. Please be sure to take safety into consideration and enjoy a memorable viewing experience.
