Sumida River Fireworks

About the festival

Sumida River Fireworks is Tokyo's oldest fireworks festival, with origins tracing back to the Edo period, and is held every July along the Sumida River. Around 20,000 fireworks are launched across two viewing areas, with Tokyo Skytree visible in the background from many vantage points, making it a popular festival for photography.

The festival is split between two launch sites along the river, each with its own programme, meaning the timing and style of fireworks can vary depending on which section visitors are watching from. Areas near Asakusa are especially popular for the Skytree backdrop.

Riverside spots fill up well before the fireworks begin, and many visitors arrive in the afternoon to claim a place. Some restaurants and rooftop bars along the river offer reserved fireworks viewing, which can be worth booking ahead for a guaranteed, less crowded experience.

The 2027 festival is expected to run on 25 July, following the festival's traditional annual date.