Sakata Hanabi: Connecting Bonds and Future Echoes

Event Overview

Sakata Hanabi is a traditional fireworks festival with a long history, originating in 1929 to commemorate the designation of Sakata Port as a major port. Set against the scenic Mogami River Park in Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture, the event features an overwhelming scale of approximately 10,000 fireworks. The festival is known for its unique way of connecting the community and the future, featuring collaborations between famous pyrotechnic shops and the "Hanabi Gakusai," where fireworks are designed by local high school students.

Highlights and How to Enjoy

The biggest highlight is the grand finale, which utilizes the vast width of the Mogami River. The spectacle spans approximately 1,350 meters, and the simultaneous launch of three massive 2-shaku shells is truly a breathtaking sight. You can also enjoy a sophisticated display of light and music, where fireworks are perfectly synchronized with the soundtrack, including the creative expressions of local students in the "Hanabi Gakusai."

Schedule

The event is scheduled for September 12, 2026. The fireworks display is expected to run from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The viewing area and official parking lots will open at 4:00 PM. The event will proceed in the case of rain, but will be canceled in the event of severe weather and will not be rescheduled.

Venue and Access

The venue is the Mogami River Park in Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture (located between Ryoba Bridge on Route 7 and Dewa Ohashi Bridge on Route 112). Parking is available via a reservation-only system through akippa Inc. Please note that parking requires membership registration and can only be paid for via online methods (cash is not accepted).

Participation Tips

To enjoy the best view, it is highly recommended to purchase paid reserved seating in advance. Various seat types are available to suit your budget and preference, including A-type chairs, C-type mass seats, D-type benches, and E1/E2 embankment seats. A ticket is required to enter the paid viewing areas. However, food and drink stalls within the venue are accessible to everyone, even those without a ticket.

What to Bring and Etiquette

We recommend bringing your own seating, such as a picnic sheet, folding chair, or tripod (please note that not all paid seats include these items). If using a tripod, please be mindful of other spectators. As temperatures can drop at night and weather can change, please dress accordingly. For details regarding ticket purchases and parking reservations, please check the official website.