Nagaoka Fireworks is widely regarded as one of Japan’s three greatest fireworks festivals — a breathtaking two-night spectacle over the Shinano River that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each August.
What It Is
Held on August 2 and 3 each year, the festival launches over 20,000 shells per night in a choreographed performance. It commemorates the 1945 wartime bombing of Nagaoka and symbolizes the city’s reconstruction and peace.
Highlights
The signature piece is the Phoenix (Fushicho) — a massive firework spreading across 2 km of sky in red, gold, and white, representing rebirth and recovery. The music-synchronized show runs approximately 2 hours each night.
Best For
Anyone wanting to experience Japan’s premier fireworks event; visitors with strong interest in Japanese festivals and cultural history.
Best Season
August 2–3. Both nights run the same program — attending one night is sufficient, though dedicated fans attend both.
Access
JR Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagaoka Station (~1h 20min). The venue is about 15 min walk from the station. Shuttle buses run frequently. Trains run until midnight from Nagaoka on festival nights.
Travel Tips
Book accommodation many months in advance — Nagaoka hotels fill up by January for the August dates. Reserved seating tickets are sold in advance and highly recommended. The Phoenix firework is launched twice: once at the start and once at the end.
Japanese version: 長岡花火大会（日本語）