Asahara Shrine Autumn Festival Fireworks (Katakai Festival)

Event Overview

Located in Katakai Town, Ojiya City, Niigata Prefecture, the Asahara Shrine Autumn Festival (Katakai Festival) is a traditional celebration with a 400-year history. It is world-renowned as the birthplace of the '3-shaku' firework and is famous for launching the massive '4-shaku' shells, the largest in the world. The fireworks, filled with the spirit of the local community, light up the night sky with a thunderous roar that echoes against the surrounding mountains, creating an electrifying atmosphere for all spectators.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The absolute highlight is the launch of the world-class '4-shaku' firework at 10:00 PM on both nights. The sheer scale of the light and the physical sensation of the booming sound will leave you with a memory that lasts a lifetime. Most of the fireworks displayed are large-scale shells, and the spectacular sequences of multi-stage launches (two-stage and ten-stage) are truly breathtaking.

Additionally, the second day features a rare 'Daytime Fireworks' display from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, a unique spectacle found only at this festival. You can also enjoy the 'Star Mine' displays launched by local community groups. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit by watching the 'Tama-okuri' floats parade through the streets accompanied by the traditional 'Shagiri' festival music.

Schedule

The festival will be held over two days on September 11 (Fri) and September 12 (Sat), 2026. The main fireworks displays run from 19:30 to 22:20.

• *Day 1 (Sept 11)**: 19:30–22:20 (4-shaku shell at 22:00)
• *Day 2 (Sept 12)**: 13:00–14:00 (Daytime fireworks), 19:30–22:20 (4-shaku shell at 22:00)

Venue & Access

The venue is near the rear of Asahara Shrine in Katakai Town. As it attracts a very large crowd, we recommend checking your route in advance.

Tips for Participation

For the best view, we recommend booking a '桟敷席' (Reserved Seating) area to enjoy the intensity up close. These seats are reservation-only and allow for a comfortable viewing experience even during peak crowds. Around the venue, approximately 110 food stalls will be open, offering local specialties, original merchandise, and delicious street food. Enjoy the deep local culture alongside the festival heat.

What to Bring & Etiquette

As this is an outdoor night event, please bring clothing suitable for temperature changes. Please be aware that the explosive sounds are extremely loud; those sensitive to loud noises should take precautions. We recommend checking official sites for details regarding reserved seating. Please follow local etiquette, such as taking your trash home and being considerate of others, to enjoy this traditional festival responsibly.