Gifu Nagaragawa Fireworks Festival

Event Overview

The Gifu Nagaragawa Fireworks Festival is held on the Nagara River in Gifu Prefecture. During this season, the traditional Ukai (cormorant fishing) is performed, and fireworks are launched to signal the start of the Ukai, beautifully decorating the night sky. In addition to standard viewing boats, special luxury boat plans are available for an extraordinary experience.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main feature of this event is the combination of traditional Ukai and fireworks. After the fireworks signaling the start of the Ukai are launched, the fishing begins. You can also view the event from 'Luxury Viewing Boats,' which offer a different experience from standard boats. There are three types of luxury boats: Shiratsuki, Aiyama, and Hanakagari, each with a unique interior design.

Shiratsuki is characterized by a white space inspired by Mino Washi paper, using cypress and cedar wood. Aiyama creates a calm, indigo-themed space inspired by the blue of the river surface, the black of Mt. Kinka, and the traditional attire of the Ukai masters. Hanakagari is themed around the colors depicted by Gifu artists. These boats feature bench seating on both sides and dimmable indirect lighting to create an atmosphere tailored to each theme.

Date & Schedule

The event will be held on August 8, 2026. The schedule is as follows:

• 15:00~: Reception begins at the Ukai Viewing Boat Office
• 17:45~: Ukai Explanation (Free observation. *No explanation on Imperial Ukai days)
• 18:15 / 18:45 / 19:15: Departure times for shared boats
• 17:30~19:15: Departure for chartered boats (at requested times)
• Around 19:45: Ukai begins (Fireworks signaling the start of Ukai will be launched)
• Around 20:30: Scheduled return to shore

Venue & Access

The venue is the area around the Nagara River in Gifu Prefecture. If you are using a viewing boat, please complete your check-in at the designated Ukai Viewing Boat Office. You must complete check-in at least 15 minutes before departure.

Participation Tips

It is highly recommended to make a reservation in advance to enjoy the Ukai and fireworks via viewing boat. The luxury boats are exclusively for private charters and accept reservations on a first-come, first-served basis via the internet. Please note that meals are not included in the plan; guests must arrange and bring their own food/catering from a restaurant or caterer.

Items to Bring, Clothing & Etiquette

• Payment Method: Please check the specified payment method in advance for reservations and settlements.
• English Support: Availability of English support on-site depends on the situation; please check in advance.
• Reservation: Luxury boats require a reservation via the internet on a first-come, first-served basis.
• What to Bring: If you wish to have a meal on board, you may bring your own food and drinks.
• Etiquette: The duration of the boat ride may change depending on safety operations or river conditions.