Iizuka Hanabi Festival

Event Overview

The Iizuka Hanabi Festival is a historic tradition in the Chikuho region, with its first celebration dating back to 1922. This major summer event attracts approximately 100,000 visitors annually. To avoid the extreme heat, the festival is now held in September. Enjoy the vibrant spectacle of roughly 7,000 fireworks lighting up the night sky over the open space of Nakanoshima on the Onga River.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main attraction is the massive, high-impact 'special effects' fireworks. The most breathtaking moment is the 'Niagara Falls' display, which creates an overwhelming curtain of light that mesmerizes the crowd. Because the venue is located along the Onga River, you can experience the intense sound and light from a very close distance. You can also enjoy the lively festival atmosphere by browsing the many food stalls (Yatai) surrounding the venue while waiting for the show to begin.

Schedule

The 2026 event is scheduled for September 25, 2026 (Friday). The fireworks are expected to launch from 20:00 to 21:10. Please note that in case of bad weather, the event is scheduled to be postponed to September 28 (Monday). While previous years ended slightly later, the 2026 program is expected to conclude around 21:10. Please check the official website or local announcements on the day for the latest progress.

Venue & Access

The venue is Nakanoshima, Onga River, located in Iizuka City, Fukuoka.

• *By Public Transport**:
• 5–10 minute walk from JR Chikuho Main Line "Shin-Iizuka Station"
• 1 minute walk from "Iizuka Bus Terminal"
• *By Car**:
• While there are municipal and private parking lots in central Iizuka, significant traffic restrictions will be in place. It is important to check your driving route in advance as certain roads may be closed.

Tips for Visitors

Preparation is key to a smooth experience. Since parking and traffic details may be finalized shortly before the event, we recommend checking the latest information about one week prior.

• *Arrival Time**: Aim to arrive by 18:00 to avoid the heaviest crowds. If driving, it is ideal to park before the traffic restrictions begin.
• *Viewing Area**: Sitting on the embankments or spreading out mats/sheets is prohibited for safety and to keep walkways clear. Please ensure you leave enough space for others to move.
• *Crowd Management**: Immediately after the fireworks end, there will be intense congestion between pedestrians and vehicles. It is often smoother to wait 20–30 minutes at the venue until the crowd thins out before heading home.

Essentials & Etiquette

• *Clothing**: As the event is in late September, temperatures may drop at night. Bringing a light jacket or a hat/towel is recommended.
• *What to Bring**: For food stalls and navigating crowds, it is useful to carry drinks, wet wipes, a trash bag, a mobile battery, and a small flashlight.
• *Etiquette**: Using umbrellas can block the view of others; a raincoat is recommended instead. The use of drones is strictly prohibited.
• *Payment & Reservations**: Viewing is free, but you will need cash for food and drinks at the stalls. Please check the official website for specific local rules.