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Celebrate summer in Izunokuni City with a lively fireworks festival along the Kano River, where local charm, tasty festival food, and colorful skies create unforgettable memories.
Why We Loved the Fireworks Festival in Izunokuni
Izunokuni’s fireworks may not be the largest in Japan, but they capture everything we love about a summer matsuri. The smaller scale, relaxed setting, and community spirit made it one of the highlights of our trip.
Welcoming Small-Town Atmosphere
Unlike the mega-festivals in Tokyo, we had no trouble finding space by the river. Families spread out picnic mats, locals chatted, and the mood was friendly and stress-free. To get the best spot, it helps to come early in the afternoon. Many locals reserve their place with a blanket, then return in the evening for the fireworks.
Festival Food and Drinks
The food stalls added to the fun. We enjoyed yakisoba, takoyaki, grilled corn, and kakigori (shaved ice) while waiting for the show. The flavors, smells, and laughter around us set the perfect stage for the fireworks.
Easy and Enjoyable Experience
We didn’t face long lines or train delays and were able to walk to the festival from our ryokan. Though crowded, the festival was well organized, and moving between the food stalls and riverbank was smooth.
A Perfect Day in Izunokuni
We spent the afternoon at Izunokuni Panorama Park, riding the ropeway up Mt. Katsuragi for sweeping views of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay. Ending the day with fireworks by the Kano River was unforgettable.
Best Time to Visit
The Izunokuni Fireworks Festival usually takes place in late July or early August. Evening activities begin around 6:00 PM, with the fireworks starting at about 7:45 PM.
How to Get to the Izunokuni Fireworks Festival
By Train
From Mishima Station, take the Izuhakone Sunzu Line to Izu-Nagaoka Station (about 20 minutes). From the station, walk 10-15 minutes to the Kano River viewing areas.
By Car
It takes about 30 minutes from Mishima or 45-60 minutes from Ito or Shuzenji, depending on traffic. Temporary parking is usually available during the festival. Follow on-site signs or the city website for locations.
By Taxi
If you are staying in Izu-Nagaoka or Shuzenji, taxis are a convenient option for the short ride to the river.
Pro Tip: Trains and roads get busy after the finale. Plan extra time for the return, or wait 20-30 minutes before leaving to avoid the rush.
Is the Izunokuni Fireworks Festival Worth Visiting?
Of the fireworks we’ve seen in Japan, this is one of our favorites. This festival combines everything wonderful about summer in Japan: warm nights, food stalls, and fireworks. It felt festive but never overwhelming, and we loved how easy it was to enjoy with the family.
If you’re visiting the Izu Peninsula in July or August, try to include this event in your plans. Watching fireworks in a friendly, small-town setting is a memory you’ll carry long after summer ends.
More to Explore Nearby
The fireworks displays in Izunokuni often take place near the beautiful rivers and the Izu-Nagaoka Onsen area. After enjoying the nighttime spectacle, the surrounding Izu Peninsula offers unique historical sites, scenic mountain views, and famous hot springs for continued exploration.
- Izu Panorama Park – Take the ropeway up Mount Katsuragi for breathtaking daytime views of the Izu Peninsula, Suruga Bay, and the spectacular profile of Mount Fuji.
- Nirayama Reverberatory Furnace – Visit this nearby UNESCO World Heritage site, a remarkably preserved industrial relic from the mid-19th century that symbolizes Japan’s drive toward modernization.
- Shuzenji Onsen & Bamboo Forest – Explore one of Izu’s most historic hot spring towns, featuring a picturesque bamboo forest path and traditional ryokan for a relaxing contrast to the excitement of the festival.
- Mishima Taisha Shrine – Head north to the nearby city of Mishima to visit this ancient and important Shinto shrine, once a crucial stop on the Old Tokaido Highway.
