Yatsushiro National Fireworks Competition

Event Overview

The Yatsushiro National Fireworks Competition is a prestigious national-scale event held in Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture, representing one of the finest competitions in Western Japan. Master pyrotechnicians showcasing the highest level of Japanese craftsmanship will compete here. With a total of approximately 14,000 fireworks, the spectacle features not only competitive displays but also breathtaking music-synchronized fireworks and cutting-edge drone shows. It is a special event where you can enjoy artistic fireworks illuminating the night sky alongside the beautiful scenery of the Kuma River.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main highlight is the "Competitive Fireworks" performed by elite specialists from across the country. Each firework is a masterpiece of precision and beauty, blooming like art in the night sky. You can also enjoy a fusion of tradition and modern technology through "Music Fireworks," where bursts are perfectly timed to music, and high-tech "Drone Shows." Around the venue, local food stalls and markets will be held, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere while tasting local delicacies.

Schedule

The event is held on October 17, 2026 (Sat). In case of bad weather, the event may be postponed to November 7, 2026 (Sat) due to heavy rain or rising water levels.

• 12:00–20:30: Local food stalls and markets
• 18:00: Opening ceremony and declaration
• 18:00–20:30: Main competition (Competitive fireworks, special displays, etc.)

Venue & Access

The venue is the Yatsushiro City Kuma River Green Space (Upstream of Shin-Hagiwara Bridge) in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto.

Road conditions around the venue:

• Shin-Hagiwara Bridge will be a pedestrian-only zone (no vehicle access) from 17:00 to approximately 21:15.
• The embankment road on the opposite side of the venue will be open for viewing from 9:00 to 22:00.

Participation Tips

There are two types of viewing areas: free areas and paid reserved seats. For those who want to experience the powerful displays from a closer distance, paid reserved seats are highly recommended. Depending on the seat type, some offer chairs while others provide space for sitting on mats. Please check the details in advance to choose the viewing style that best suits you.

Essentials & Etiquette

• *Clothing & Items**: As you will be watching outdoors for a long time, we recommend bringing warm clothing for the night chill and a leisure sheet (blue sheet) if you plan to sit on the ground. If you use paid seats, please be mindful of others when bringing personal items.
• *Payment**: We recommend preparing cash for use at food stalls and local markets.
• *Reservations**: Please check the specific booking methods for paid seats in advance.
• *Manners**: The area around the venue becomes extremely crowded. Since the area near Shin-Hagiwara Bridge becomes a pedestrian-only zone, please allow plenty of time for movement. Toilets and smoking areas are located at various points throughout the venue.