Tsuchiura All Japan Fireworks Competition 2026 Confirmed Flagship event

土浦全国花火競技大会 — Tsuchiura, Ibaraki (Kanto)

The Tsuchiura All Japan Fireworks Competition is one of Japan's three great fireworks competitions, held unusually in early November — crisp, clear autumn air that makes colors sharper than any summer show. Pyrotechnicians from across the country compete in starmine, 10-inch shell and creative divisions, and the crowd of several hundred thousand includes a high share of serious hanabi fans taking notes.

Background

Founded in 1925 by the head priest of a local temple to support struggling veterans and honor aviators from the nearby naval air base, Tsuchiura evolved into the competition where the starmine division is considered the national benchmark.

Getting there

The venue on the Sakura River is about 2.5km from JR Tsuchiura Station (Joban Line, about 70 minutes from Ueno); shuttle buses and a well-organized walking route operate on the day.

Tips

• Being November, it gets properly cold after sunset — bring winter layers, gloves and something insulated to sit on.
• The starmine division is the highlight; competition programs alternate quickly, so the pacing feels faster than a standard festival.
• Rain date is the following Saturday — a unique luxury among big festivals, so late-announced postponements do happen.
• Book Joban Line seats back to Tokyo in advance or expect to queue; the station manages heavy one-way flows after the finale.

Last verified against the official source: Sun, July 12, 2026