Skip to content
Morioka Hanabi no Saiten (Morioka Fireworks Festival)

Guide

Morioka Hanabi no Saiten (Morioka Fireworks Festival)

7 min read

Event Overview

Morioka Hanabi no Saiten is one of the largest fireworks festivals in the Morioka area, held at the Kitakami Riverbed downstream from Tonan Ohashi Bridge in Morioka City, Iwate. The event features a breathtaking competition by top-tier pyrotechnicians from across Japan. Approximately 10,000 fireworks, including rapid-fire shells and elaborate decorative displays, illuminate the night sky. Beyond the fireworks, the festival atmosphere is heightened by traditional local performances such as Sansa Odori dance, Shishi Odori (lion dance), and Tonan Taiko drumming.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main highlight is the overwhelming scale of the fireworks. The display features massive 10-go shells and colorful starmines that showcase the advanced techniques of Japan's finest pyrotechnicians. The combination of traditional music, dance, and light creates a deeply cultural and emotional experience. It is a perfect way to experience the essence of a Japanese summer, blending modern light shows with ancient traditions.

Date & Schedule

The festival takes place on August 11. The schedule is as follows:

  • Gates Open: 16:30
  • Fireworks Start: Around 19:25 – 20:30

Venue & Access

The venue is the Kitakami Riverbed, located downstream from Tonan Ohashi Bridge in Morioka City.

Nearest Station & Bus

  • *JR Iwate Iioka Station**: Approximately a 30-minute walk (Shuttle buses are also available).
  • *Regular Bus**: Routes run from Morioka Station via Morioka Bus Center to the Red Cross Hospital (Nisseki-mae) area. Return trips are also planned from the Red Cross Hospital area.
  • *Temporary Shuttle Bus**: Available from Iwate Iioka Station (East Exit) or the Morioka Central Wholesale Market.

Parking

Special parking lots are provided near the venue:

  • Morioka Central Wholesale Market (400 spaces)
  • Morioka Tonan Cultural Hall (100 spaces)
  • Jam Friend Morioka Minami Store (approx. 100 spaces)

Tips for Visitors

Due to extreme crowds, preparation is key. Purchasing paid spectator seats will ensure a much more comfortable viewing experience. Since reserved and chair seats are sold in advance, we recommend securing your tickets early. Please also note that traffic restrictions will be in place on the day of the event; please allow plenty of time for travel.

What to Bring & Etiquette

Essentials

  • *Ground Sheet**: Please bring a leisure sheet or mat to sit on. The use of portable chairs is prohibited in the general viewing areas.
  • *Light Jacket**: Even in summer, temperatures can drop at night near the river, so a light layer is recommended.

Payments & Rules

  • *Tickets**: Reserved seats (with chairs) are sold in advance. While same-day tickets may be available, they are highly sought after and may sell out quickly.
  • *Prohibited Items**: Drones, bicycles, and pets are strictly prohibited within the venue.
  • *Trash**: Please use the provided bins or take your trash home. Do not leave litter at the venue.
  • *Parking**: Parking is strictly prohibited outside of the designated special parking lots.