They say that “a picture is worth a thousand words.” Well,
then, how many words do you think the photo here is worth? Too many to count, I
reckon.
It would be futile to try to describe a fireworks display in
Japan, for they are just something that you have to experience. They don’t come
any more famous or incredible than the annual Sumida River Fireworks Festival
in Tokyo. This year’s festival will be taking place soon on July 28 (Sunday).
A fixed feature of the Japanese summer going back to the Edo
Period (1603-1868), hanabi or
fireworks displays take place throughout the Japanese archipelago. Almost
entirely free – except for some seating in stands located closest to the action
– they are often enjoyed by tens of thousands of people.
The Sumida River Fireworks Festival started in 1732 as part
of the festivals for the dead. By the mid-Edo period it became a competition to
see which guild of firework engineers, either Tamaya or Kagiya, could impress
the onlookers the most. Back then people would shout out the name of the guild
whose fireworks they were most impressed with while watching the fireworks.
The popularity has increased over time so that now almost 1
million people gather on the banks of the river to enjoy this spectacular
display. This year will see a total of 20,000 fireworks shot up towards the
heavens.
In addition to all the colours that fill the nighttime sky
are varying hues that you see closer to terra firma. Many women get dressed up
for the occasion by wearing brightly coloured yukata (summer kimono), obi
(belts) and geta (wooden clogs) – not to mention arming themselves with big
fans to battle the summer heat.
Free, beautiful and oodles of fun, the Sumida River
Fireworks Display is an event that no visitor to Tokyo should miss. Although
time is short, Unique Japan Tours is here to help arrange a holiday in Japan
that would allow you to experience this summer spectacular.
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