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Laboratory Life ④ (Leisure): Tamagawa Fireworks Festival on the Night of Typhoon - Summer Memories of Yukata, Fireworks, and Youth

This article is part of theCh3: Life in a Research Laboratory"Part 4 of the series

Academics and Socialization

Leisure & Entertainment

Social Culture

Highlights of this article

  • The Cultural Meaning of Japanese Fireworks Display Contests and the Differences between Taiwan and Japan
  • Tama River Fireworks Festival: Transportation, Places to Watch, and Paid Seats
  • "Explanation of the difference in geographical names between Tamagawa and Tamagawa
  • The real experience of watching fireworks on the night of typhoon and strategies to cope with the crowds
  • Yukata Culture and Tips for Buying and Renting Yukata (Including Comparison of Three Major Brands)
  • Recommended Websites for Checking Fireworks Calendar
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
  1. Guided Reading and Reading Suggestions
    1. Quick Checklist (must read before Flower & Fire)
  2. The Complete Guide to Japan's Hanabi Kai (Fireworks Festival)
    1. 🎆 What is a Sparkler's Convention?
    2. 🇹🇼 vs 🇯🇵 Difference between Taiwanese fireworks and Japanese fireworks.
  3. Tips for checking your fire schedule
  4. Yukata culture?
    1. 👘 What's a yukata?
    2. 👘 Yukata Buying Information
      1. 💰 Actual Price Comparison Table
      2. 📦 Comparison of Kit Contents
      3. 🎨 Comparison of Design Styles
      4. 🏆 Comparison of visibility and ratings
      5. 📏 Size and Material Comparison
    3. 👘 Yukata rental information
  5. 🌸 Tamagawa Fireworks Festival (Tamagawa Fireworks Festival)
    1. Basic Information
    2. 🤔 Difference between Tamagawa and Tama River
      1. Distinguishing Geographical Names from Rivers
      2. Pronounced the same, but used for different purposes
  6. Adventure in Typhoon Night - The Decision to Leave
    1. 🌀 The day before the event: the canceled fireworks festival
    2. 🌧️ The Day of the Event: An Unexpected Turnaround
    3. 🚃 Yukata view on the train
    4. ☔ Instantly become a chicken in the soup.
  7. Smoke and Fire - Summer Memories of Youth
    1. 🎆 The countdown begins.
    2. ✨ Yukata and fireworks are beautiful!
    3. 🏃 The Wisdom of Leaving Early
    4. 🌃 Moving on, more spectacular fireworks
    5. 🌊 The crowds are like a tsunami.
    6. 💭 Looking forward to the future
  8. Practical Tips and Reminders
    1. 📍 Recommended Places to Watch the Tamagawa Fireworks Festival
    2. 🚃 Return trip tips (super important!)
    3. ⚠️ Pit Avoidance Alert
      1. 1. Vendor shopping is completed before the opening of the stalls
      2. 2. Super crowded toilets
      3. 3. wearing a yukata is beautiful, but it's also hard work
  9. Conclusion
  10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Readers
  11. Related Resources
  12. Read Next

Guided Reading and Reading Suggestions

This post chronicles my adventures as I persevered through the night of a typhoon to get to the Tamagawa Fireworks Festival. If you're planning to go to the Japan Fireworks Festival, this article will help you:

  • ✅ Understanding the cultural significance of the Japanese Hanabi Daikai(Difference with Taiwan fireworks)
  • ✅ Knowing where to go and where to watch the Tamagawa Fireworks Festival
  • ✅ Learn how to deal with crowds(Early Exit Technique)
  • ✅ Understanding Yukata Culture("Dressing for the Summer Festival)
  • ✅ Yukata Buying Tips(Complete comparison of the three brands)
  • ✅ Avoiding Common Mistakes("Don't leave until the end.)

It is recommended to read the Quick Checklist first, then read the cultural background, and finally refer to the FAQ for answers to frequently asked questions.

Quick Checklist (must read before Flower & Fire)

  • 📋 Prepare for departure (1 week in advance is recommended) 
    • Confirmation of the date and time of the Fireworks Display Contest (check the official website)
    •  Check the weather forecast (thunderstorms and typhoons are common in Japan during the summer).
    •  Confirm the mode of transportation (train schedule, location of temporary station)
    •  Decide whether or not to wear a yukata (rental or purchase required in advance)
    •  Download transportation APPs (e.g., Google Maps, travel cases)
    •  Prepare cash (most vendors do not accept credit cards)
  • 📋 Must-have items for the day
    •  IC card (Suica/PASMO) with sufficient stored value
    •  Anti-mosquito liquid (mosquitoes are plentiful by the river)
    •  Lightweight rain gear (folding umbrella or lightweight raincoat)
    •  Picnic mat or newspaper (if you want to sit and watch)
    •  Mobile power (power consumption for photos)
    •  Change (to buy food from vendors)
    •  Toilet paper and wipes (toilets may be out of paper)
  • 📋 Flower and Fire Congress Tips and Tricks

The Complete Guide to Japan's Hanabi Kai (Fireworks Festival)

🎆 What is a Sparkler's Convention?

Flower and Fire Club(Hanabi Taikai is one of the representative events of summer in Japan, usually held in July and August. Unlike the fireworks displays in Taiwan, the fireworks display in Japan is not only a visual treat, but also carries a deep cultural meaning. The following is the cultural background of the fireworks display:

cultural connotationDescription
Soul Calming and BlessingOriginated in the Edo period, it was used to comfort the soul and expel epidemics.
Summer Scenery PoemThe symbol of summer, along with the yukata, the summer festival, and the cicada.
Local exchangesLocal fireworks displays are launched to promote local economy and tourism.
Youth MemoryImportant occasions for couples dating and family gatherings

🇹🇼 vs 🇯🇵 Difference between Taiwanese fireworks and Japanese fireworks.

For your better understanding, here is a detailed comparison of the fireworks between Taiwan and Japan:

  • Technical and Design Differences
ProjectNihonbanaTaiwan Fireworks
Shape StructureExquisite spherical bloom, multiple concentric circles, clear patternsSpherical design, but more emphasis on the overall visual effect
Color ChangesRich in color, changes color before disappearing (e.g. red → blue → gold)A variety of colors to emphasize the lively atmosphere
Technical FeaturesHigh level of technical requirements, the pursuit of subtlety and refinementCombine music and lighting to emphasize the sound and light effects.
Casting HeightTypically taller (300-500 meters)Varies by site (100-300 meters)
  • Difference in cultural meaning
ProjectNihonbanaTaiwan Fireworks
Historical BackgroundOriginally from the Edo period, it was used for praying for souls.Mainly used for celebrating festivals
Casting TimeIn the summer (July-August), the fixed organizationLantern Festival, National Day, New Year's Eve
Activity DurationApprox. 1-1.5 hoursUsually 5-15 minutes
Viewing MethodsSitting freely on the ground by the river or in the park.Designated viewing area, crowded
clothing cultureYukata is standard.General Clothing
Hawker CultureYatai (やたい) is a similar night market.Fewer stalls
  • Difference in casting mode
ProjectNihonbanaTaiwan Fireworks
RhythmSlow and orderly, with intervals between shots.Fast, dense, continuous fire
CategoryShakudama (large fireworks), Shikake Hanabi (special effect)High Altitude Fireworks, Low Altitude Fireworks
musical accompanimentMusic in some scenes, but not majorUsually with music design
Closing ClimaxLarge-scale simultaneous launch (finale)Continuous and intensive firing

💡 Final ThoughtsJapanese fireworks are known for their delicate techniques and cultural connotations, emphasizing subtlety and atmosphere; Taiwanese fireworks emphasize the festivities and joy, and have a stronger visual impact.

Tips for checking your fire schedule

If you are interested in Japanese fireworks but don't know the schedule, we recommend a few websites:


Yukata culture?

Perhaps you've seen girls wearing beautiful traditional clothing, known as yukata, in manga or anime scenes of a fireworks festival.

👘 What's a yukata?

bathrobeYukata is a traditional Japanese summer garment that is lighter and simpler than kimono, and is mainly worn at summer festivals and fireworks displays. The following are the differences between yukata and kimono:

ProjectYukata (bathrobe)Kimono
MaterialCotton or linen (breathable)Silk (higher grade)
SeasonsummertimeAll seasons
occasionFestivals and fireworks festivalsFormal Occasions (Wedding, Adult Ceremony)
PriceCheaper (3,000-10,000 yen)More expensive (30,000-100,000 yen)
Difficulty in wearingSimplerProfessional skills required

👘 Yukata Buying Information

If you would like to experience watching a fireworks display in a yukata, you can choose from the following stores:

Kyoto Kimono Tomochan
Formula Oranjestoa

-Quality assurance・Traditional shop

Click the button below to order the Kyoto Kimono Tomochan Yukata

  • ✅ Best Quality (55 years old)
  • ✅ Elegant and traditional design
  • ✅ High brand trust
  • ❌ Set includes 2 points only (additional accessories may be required)
  • ⚠️ Ideal for those who are looking for quality and have sufficient budget.
capital city of Vietnam
KYOETSU KIMONO

-CP value champion, first choice for beginners.

Click on the button below to order "KYOETSU" Yukata!

  • ✅ 6-point set most complete (¥9,980 approx.)
  • ✅ Size selection up to (M/L/TL/BL)
  • ✅ Highest visibility (top ranked by Tong Hawker)
  • ✅ Suitable for the whole family (men, women and children)
  • ⚠️ Medium-quality, suitable for limited budgets
Women's Yukata Specialty Shop ディータ
Dita Official Store
-Young women's favorites. The design is the most adorable.

Click the button below to order the ディータ Dita. Yukata

  • ✅ Design is the most adorable (Vintage Sweet Style)
  • ✅ With Teaching Manual (Beginner Friendly)
  • ✅ LUMINE® Top Rated (⭐4.8)
  • ✅ Instagram takes the best photos
  • ⚠️ 5-point set is expensive
  • ⚠️ Sizes are small. Recommended height 155-165cm.

💰 Actual Price Comparison Table

proprietor of a store or restaurantMain PackagesActual price (including tax)Price rangePrice Features
Kyoto Kimono Tomochan2-point set¥6,800~¥11,400Yukata series: ¥6,800-¥13,800Cheapest ¥6,800 for a 2-point centerpiece.
Separetti Yukata ¥11,400
KIMONO KYOETSU6 Points Deluxe Set¥9,980Set from 2:00 to 6:00: ¥3,780 to ¥9,9806-point set uniform price ¥9,980
Children's 2-point set from ¥3,780
Dita ディータ5-Point Set¥14,990~¥16,000Set from 3:00 to 5:00: ¥5,990 to ¥16,0005-point set ¥14,990-¥16,000
From ¥5,990 for a 3-point cepallette

📦 Comparison of Kit Contents

Below are the usual yukata accessories:

  • Yukata Body
  • Belts
  • Send (げた、木屐)
  • Towel (Kinchaku, small cloth bag)
  • Hair accessories (girls)
ContentKyoto Kimono Tomochan
2-point set
KIMONO KYOETSU
6 Points Deluxe Set
Dita ディータ
5-Point Set
🎐 Yukata Body✅ Material✅ Changeable Weave・Generated Color✅ Cotton 100%
Takiruruori (unique)
✅ Hyorinbee✅Shiwabingi✅Shiwabingi
Send a message❌ Not included (sold separately)✅ Yakutagi Shimodaka (Yukata Color Matching)✅ Send
📿 腰紐❌ Not included (sold separately)✅ Belt Newel × 2 pcs✅ Waistband × 1 book
👚 Muscle (Lining)❌ Not included (sold separately)✅ Free Size for Yukata❌ Not included (sold separately)
📖 Teaching and Learning❌ None❌ None✅ Authoring Manicure
(Detailed Illustrated Teaching Book)
🎯 Set Completeness★★☆☆☆☆
Yukata+帯
Need to purchase 3 additional items
★★★★★
The most complete accessories
Ready to wear on arrival
★★★★☆
All except for the muscle work.
With the friendliest teaching

🎨 Comparison of Design Styles

Comparison ItemsKyoto Kimono TomochanKIMONO KYOETSUDita ディータ
Design PositioningHigh-quality routes for old storesPopularization of Wabi-Sabi CultureYoung Women's Trendy Yukata Specialty
Style🌸 Superior Modan
("Elegant Modern Style)
🎌 Traditional×Torrend Fusion
(Traditions x Trends)
💕 レトロコート×大人ガーリー
(Vintage sweet x mature girl style)
Main Programs- Classical Flower Handle (Peony, Goldfish)
- Sasa (bamboo leaf)
- 毬模様 (ball pattern)
- Peony
- flower stalk
- Geometry
- Stripes
- Willow Yukata (Wave Texture)
- Watercolor Flower Handle
- Sunflower, hydrangea
- Antique Vintage Pattern
Color System- Dark Blue
- Grey
- white background
- Calm Colors
- 13 types of trader's carriers
- Kusumi Kara (Morandi color scheme)
- Neighborhoods, Vegetables, and Hotels
- Pastel color (pink color)
- Bevvy Carat (Vibrant Color)
- Two-tone and three-tone color scheme
Fabric Featurescotton
(High-grade cotton embossed texture)
- Variable Weaving (Special Weaving)
- Komaguchi Sheng Di (Breathable Light)
- Generate color (beige)
Mian 100%
Takiru Ruori (滝流れ織)(fine straight texture)
Wakayama Dye Works Japanese Dyeing
Number of stylesFewer choices, more traditionalA wide range of styles for boys and girlsWomen's specialties in abundance
Suitable age groupOver 25 years oldYear-round age group18-30 years old
Suitable for the clienteleMature, understated, traditionalPractical, Diverse, Family-orientedCute, photogenic, and date oriented.

🏆 Comparison of visibility and ratings

Comparison ItemsKyoto Kimono TomochanKIMONO KYOETSUDita ディータ
Brand HistoryEstablished over 55 years ago
National 40 Shops
Total number of customers 500,000+
Parent company: Kyoei Corporation
Wakodo Hawkers Major Brands
Affiliated Rental Brand "Kyoto Kashiki Mono
Women's Yukata Hawker
Rapid rise in recent years
SNS Marketing Success
popularityIndustry veteranHawker Ranking Frequent WinnerHigh awareness among young people
Main Product PositioningVibrating Sleeve (Adult Style)
Yukata as a by-line
Wabi-sabi full range
Yukata is one of the mainstays
Yukata Specialty
No Other Clothing Items
Amazon Reviews⭐ 4.0ish⭐ 4.2 to 4.5⭐ 4.3 to 4.5
LUMINE® ReviewUnspecified⭐ 4.0+ (thousands)⭐ 4.8 (700+ pieces)
Internet Searchmoderatesuprememid-to-high
Highlights- Stable quality
- Fine workmanship
- High brand reliability
- excellent value for money
- 6-point set is a good deal.
- Choose from a wide range of sizes
- Cute design.
- Reasonably priced set
- Clear teaching manuals
Common Criticisms- Higher price
- Incomplete set of accessories
- Some sizes run large
- Medium quality
- Height 165cm+DDD will be short.
- Fewer size options
Suitable for the clientelePursuing Brand Assurance
budget-conscious
and installing the doorway
Purchase for the whole family
Pursuit of CP value
Young women
First time buyer
Emphasis on Design

📏 Size and Material Comparison

Comparison ItemsKyoto Kimono TomochanKIMONO KYOETSUDita ディータ
Size OptionsM, L, LLM, L, TL, BLFree size is the main
Height range150-170cm+- M: 150-160cm
- L: 160~168cm
- TL: 165-175cm (tall)
- BL: Large
155~165cm is the most suitable
(Adjustable to 150-170cm)
Size FlexibilityNeed to choose the right sizeThe most diverse selectionPartially self-adjusting
Children's Styles❌ None✅ Yes (753, Son's Bathrobe)❌ None

💡 Bathing Suit Purchase Tip

  • If you want to have a traditional Japanese high class feelingJust choose Kyoto Kimono Tomochan The yukata bar!
  • If it's your first time buying a yukataI recommend it the most. KYOETSU's 6-point packageThe most complete and affordable.
  • If you value design cutenessSelect Dita. That's right!

👘 Yukata rental information

What should I do if I only want to wear it once and don't want to maintain it, or if I want to wear a different style every year/every time and change the yukata according to the occasion?

For those who have such problems, you can try "Kimono RENTALIER"'s home rental service, which is convenient and easy to use.

Kimono Rentarie
KIMONO RENTALIER

-Home depot rental specializing in 9 generations of old shops-

↓↓↓Click the button below to order "きものレンタリエ KIMONO RENTALIER" Yukata ↓↓↓↓

(Currently, members get a 1,000 yen coupon when they sign up!!!)

  • ✅ Benefits
    • The 20-point set is the most complete.
      • (Yukata / Half-belt / Belt(4pcs) / Jacket / Convenient Vegetable(Dressing Vegetable) 1pc / Front Plate / Quadruple Nut / Wampi Strip / Dressing Hengar/Henryu Shiki)
        →Chinese translation: Yukata / Half-width belt / Belt (4) / Magic belt / Kouryuu belt (1) / Front closure / Four-layer temporary belt / Undergarment (one-piece) / Kimono hanger / Wrapped cloth
      • Please note that there is no hairpiece.
    • Round-trip transportation is completely free of chargeIt's very convenient.
    • 9 generations old shop quality assuranceSilk yukata is available.
    • No need to wash and send back directlySaves time and effort
    • It is possible to useTrial Camera(Chinese:Online Try-On Camera)If you want to see if the style or color is suitable for you, please contact us.
  • ❌ Disadvantages
    • Overpriced(¥5,980~) You can probably buy the above yukata for a little extra.
    • Fixed lease period of 4 to 5 daysExtension is available at an additional charge (1 day ¥1,000~).
    • Booking must be made no later than 6 days prior to the date of use.

small knot::

Yukata home rental saves money and hassle, and is suitable for people who wear them occasionally, want to try different styles, or experience high-quality materials. Before renting, all you need to do is confirm the contents of the set, delivery/return methods, rental period and compensation regulations, and select materials and styles according to the venue and age, and you can use them with peace of mind and convenience!


🌸 Tamagawa Fireworks Festival (Tamagawa Fireworks Festival)

Basic Information

ProjectInformation
Official NameSetagaya-ku Tamagawa Fireworks Festival
LocationTamagawa River Kawashiki (border between Setagaya-ku and Kawasaki City)
TimeMid-August each year (approximately 19:00-20:00)
FireworksAbout 6,000-12,000 issues (depending on the year)
Anticipate the crowdsAbout 200,000 to 300,000 people
Recent StationsFutago Shinchi Station, Futago Tamagawa Station, Takatsu Station
Official WebsiteSetagaya Ward Official Website
  • distinctiveness
    • ✅ Dual casting: Double the visual effect when casting on the Setagaya side and the Kawasaki side at the same time.
    • ✅ Riverside Viewing: Sitting on the floor, relaxing atmosphere
    • ✅ Stalls are plentiful: Similar to a Taiwanese night market, with everything from grilled octopus to fried noodles and squid.
    • ✅ convenient transportationFrom Shibuya: about 20 minutes.

🤔 Difference between Tamagawa and Tama River

When I first came to Japan, I heard the word "tamagawa" when I passed by Futago Tamagawa station in Setagaya district. I thought the event was called "Tamagawa Fireworks Festival" but it was held at Futago Tamagawa station. It was only when I looked up the information that I realized it.

Distinguishing Geographical Names from Rivers

NameuseDescription
Tamagawa (Tamagawa)toponymyPlace names in Setagaya-ku or Ota-ku, Tokyo (e.g., Futako Tamagawa, Tanazono Tobu)
Tamagawa (Tamagawa)names of riversA first-class river that flows through the Kanto region from Yamanashi Prefecture to Tokyo Bay.

Pronounced the same, but used for different purposes

  • Tamagawa (name): Often used in place names or historical contexts (e.g. Tamagawa Kamisui in the Edo period), it played an important role in supplying water to Edo.
  • Tamagawa (name): Refers to a specific river (e.g., the Tama River Fireworks Festival is held on the banks of the Tama River). The Tama River flows through the border of Tokyo and Kanagawa Prefectures, and there are many natural parks and recreational areas in the basin.

💡 Memory Tips::

  • Tamagawa (name) = Place name (station, street)
  • Tamagawa (name) = Kawagawa (Hanabi Kaikokai venue)

Adventure in Typhoon Night - The Decision to Leave

🌀 The day before the event: the canceled fireworks festival

Prof. Sato even thoughtfully rescheduled the seminar practice for this fireworks event so that everyone could concentrate on enjoying the fireworks. Unexpectedly.Everything is ready but the east wind, no, there is one more typhoon!

LINE Group Messages(the night before):

Nakata (20:30): "Due to typhoon, the fireworks tour is canceled! 😭"
Me (20:32): "Oooh, what a shame..."
Kida-senpai (20:35): "Be safe, everyone!"

My inner OS:

"All the other fireworks were stuck in the middle of my final exams, so I couldn't see them either. I haven't seen a single firework in the summer in Japan, so it's kind of crazy..."


🌧️ The Day of the Event: An Unexpected Turnaround

The next day when I was chatting with Mr. Murata in the research lab, I accidentally found that the official website showed thatI can't believe the event didn't stop.!

I'm excited."Senior, the program hasn't been canceled! Should we go ahead with the original plan?"

Mr. Murata (Sharp): "Yeah, I'll call the others who are in the research lab."

In this way, the four of us, Murata-senpai, Kida-senpai, and Iwata-senpai.regardless of the weatherThe festival will be held at the Tamagawa River Fireworks Festival.

💡 Cultural ObservationsPerhaps this is the Japanese spirit of "yaru-ki" (vigor)! The event went on even though it was a typhoon, and we decided to take on this adventure.

🚃 Yukata view on the train

When you get on the tram, it's full of people. Girls in YukataThe colorful yukatas are in full bloom, and they are all in full bloom.

The following are commonYukata colors and patterns::

  • pink color schemeCherry blossom, peony, goldfish (most common)
  • Blue: Face (petunia), wave, fireworks pattern
  • Purple: Purple Gerbera (Hydrangea), Butterfly pattern
  • Red: Chrysanthemum, Maple Leaf Pattern

My Observations::

"Yukata is really beautiful! The girls look like they've stepped out of a Japanese drama, and with the clippety-clopping of their clogs, the summer atmosphere is instantly filled with excitement."

☔ Instantly become a chicken in the soup.

As the tram got closer to its destination.The rain is getting heavier.The rain was so heavy that many people took the reverse tram to their homes. Many people couldn't stand the pouring rain and took the reverse tram home.

Kida-senpai (hesitant)"Do you want to leave?"

Mr. Murata (without hesitation)"Let's go!"

As I spoke, I swiped my card and walked out of Futako-Shindi Station through the ticket gate. When we passed through the temporary exit that had been set up for the fireworks display, weI'll be in a soup in no time.!

Scene of the Moment::

  • The rain is super heavy, like a splash.
  • Umbrellas are useless. They flip over when the wind blows.
  • The girls in yukata ran screaming.
  • Vendors were busy packing up their goods wet by rain.

Nevertheless, we looked for the best places to watch while strolling through the bustling street of stalls that looked like a Taiwanese night market.

Tamagawa Fireworks Festival Vendors

Types of Stalls::

  • 🍢 Takoyaki (Octopus Grill)
  • 🍜 Yakisoba (fried noodles)
  • 🍡 Rinpoche Candies (Gourd Candies/Apple Candies)
  • 🦑 Yaki-ika (grilled squid)
  • 🍌 チョコバナナ (chocolate banana)
  • 🎯 shot (shooting game)
  • 🎣 Goldfish Sukui (salted goldfish)

💡 Cultural ExperienceThe festival is a great example of the charm of Japan's fireworks displays: even when it rains heavily, the vendors and tourists still persevere!


Smoke and Fire - Summer Memories of Youth

🎆 The countdown begins.

Once you have found your spot, the countdown begins:

"five, four, three, two, one!"

The seniors began to guess which direction the fireworks would come from.

Shoo - touch!

The whole room gasped."Kirei! (It's beautiful."

SurpriseI can't believe it. Left and right side at the same timeWe look to the right and turn to the left to enjoy the fireworks! We looked to the right and turned to the left, enjoying the fireworks.

✨ Yukata and fireworks are beautiful!

I noticed.The glow of the fireworks will make the colorful yukata even more attractive.I was watching the couples in the neighborhood and felt like I was in a scene from a Japanese drama. Looking at the couples in the neighborhood, I felt like I was in a scene from a Japanese drama, feeling the youth of summer.

Yukata girls under the fire.::

  • The yukata is illuminated by the fireworks, making the pattern even more colorful.
  • The girls look up at the fireworks, their side profile outlined by light and shadow.
  • Couples holding hands, whispering in hushed tones
  • The children jumped around excitedly.

My feelings::

"This is a scene from a Japanese drama! Youth, romance, and the flavor of summer all come together at this moment. Even though I'm here alone, my heart is filled with warmth watching these scenes."

🏃 The Wisdom of Leaving Early

As I watched, Murata-senpai suddenly tapped me on the shoulder:

Mr. Murata"Zero, get ready to go!"

Me (confused)"That fast? Don't we have 45 minutes?"

Kida-senpai (explanation)"Because the crowds will be so big that we won't be able to get on the tram!"

I (hesitates)"So... I'll just stay here and take a look at it myself. Why don't you guys go home?"

Mr. Morita."Okay, be careful and get back early!"

🌃 Moving on, more spectacular fireworks

After separating from my elder sister, I continued to move towards the fireworks site to enjoy the more spectacular fireworks.

The closer you get, the more you'll be shocked.::

  • The sound of fireworks is deafening.
  • You can feel the heat of the fireworks.
  • The fragments of fireworks fall like a meteor shower.
  • The colors of the fireworks are even more vivid.

My thoughts.::

"It's so beautiful! It's the first time in my life that I've seen fireworks, and it's in Japan, so it's unreal."

🌊 The crowds are like a tsunami.

But after watching for a while, I feel Something's missing.I decided to go for it. Coupled with the memory of the crowded trains in Tokyo, I decided to Leave 15 minutes earlyThe

I was about to turn around when I saw People are coming to the station like a tsunami.!

Scene::

  • The crowd is so dense, they can't move at all.
  • Children crying, adults shouting.
  • The entrance to the station was overcrowded, and staff members shouted to maintain order.
  • Tram after tram leaves, but the platforms are still crowded.

What I've learned::

"It was only then that I realized that the Japanese Fireworks Festival is not usually seen at the end of the day, or else I would have to suffer the pain of crowding on the train. Luckily I left early or I would have been overwhelmed by the crowds."

💭 Looking forward to the future

If you are with a partner or family member, you can appreciate it slowly and wait until the crowd clears before heading home together.

My expectations.::

"I look forward to the day when I have someone to accompany me to enjoy the whole fireworks display, visit the stalls together, sit on the ground by the river, watch the fireworks, wait for the crowds to disperse, and walk slowly home together".


Practical Tips and Reminders

📍 Recommended Places to Watch the Tamagawa Fireworks Festival

  • Setagaya side
Locationdistinctivenesscrowd sizeRecommended Index
Near Futago Tamagawa StationThe best view, but the most crowded⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Near Futago Shindi StationLess crowded, good view⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kawashiki NakaSpacious space for seating on the floor⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • Kawasaki Side
Locationdistinctivenesscrowd sizeRecommended Index
Near Takatsu StationKawasaki side main viewing area⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kawashiki (name)Spacious space with good visibility⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

💡 Recommendation: The neighborhood of Futako Shindi Station is less crowded and has a good view, making it the best choice!

🚃 Return trip tips (super important!)

  • Option 1: Leave 15-30 minutes early(Recommended!)
    • Advantage: Avoid the crowds and get on the tram smoothly.
    • Cons: Can't see the final climax
  • Option 2: Watch the whole trip, have dinner or a snack nearby and wait for the crowds to die down.(approximately 30-60 minutes)
    • Benefits: See the whole fireworks, enjoy the full experience, and enjoy the afterglow with your companions!
    • Cons: Longer waiting time

💡 RecommendationIf this is your first time attending the event, you are advised to leave the venue 15-30 minutes early to avoid the peak of the crowd. If you want to see the whole show, you are recommended to dine at a nearby restaurant with your friends or partner and wait for the crowds to disperse before taking a bus back.

⚠️ Pit Avoidance Alert

1. Vendor shopping is completed before the opening of the stalls

rationale::

  • Extremely long queue after opening (each booth may take 10-20 minutes)
  • Concentrate on the fireworks after the show, not suitable for queuing up

Recommendation::

  • Arrive 1-2 hours early and visit the vendors first.
  • Buy food and drinks, then find a viewing position

2. Super crowded toilets

rationale::

  • Limited number of temporary toilets
  • Peak hours are before and after the opening.

Recommendation::

  • Go to the toilet first at the station.
  • Avoid the peak hours before and after the opening ceremony.
  • Bring toilet paper (temporary toilets may be out of paper)

3. wearing a yukata is beautiful, but it's also hard work

rationale::

  • Wooden clogs (green) will wear out your feet if you walk for a long time.
  • The yukata is worn in a fixed way, which makes it difficult to move around.
  • Trouble getting to the toilet

Recommendation::

  • Carry OK bandage (to prevent foot abrasion)
  • Wear comfortable underwear
  • Consider wearing regular clothes (many Japanese also wear casual clothes)

Conclusion

The Tamagawa River Fireworks Festival is one of my most unforgettable summer memories in Japan. Even though a typhoon hit, and even though I was left in a soup, the bright fireworks, colorful yukata, and youthful atmosphere made me deeply feel that the festival was a great success. The Unique Charm of Japanese SummerThe

I learned from this experience:

  • ✅ Seize the Moment: Be brave and go even if the weather is bad, because if you miss it, you won't have it again!
  • ✅ The Wisdom of Leaving EarlyDon't be obsessed with seeing the whole course, avoid the crowds to have a good experience!
  • ✅ Looking forward to the future: I am looking forward to the day when I can enjoy the complete fireworks display with my significant other!

If you are going to Japan soon, it is highly recommended to attend a fireworks festival in summer! Put on a yukata, browse the stalls, sit on the ground, look up at the fireworks, and feel the romance and youth of Japanese summer. It's an unforgettable experience that will last a lifetime.

In the next post, I will share a little trip to Fukuoka after the academy! Stay tuned!


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Readers

Q
Do I have to wear a yukata for the Hanafuda?
A

Not necessarily! Although wearing a yukata is very atmospheric, there are many Japanese people who attend in plain clothes. Suggestion:

  • I want to experience Japanese culture: Yukata recommended (can be rented or purchased)
  • Pursuit of Comfort: Just wear normal clothes (t-shirt + shorts).
  • First time wearing a yukata.: It is recommended that you wear it at the rental store first, not by yourself.
Q
Will rain cancel the fireworks display?
A

Depending on the circumstances:

  • Light rain or showers: Usually organized as usual
  • Heavy Rain or Typhoon: May be postponed or canceled
  • Recommendation: Check on the official website before you go!
Q
How far in advance do I need to arrive at the site?
A

Recommendation:

  • Trying to get a good spot.: 2-3 hours in advance
  • General Appreciation: 1-2 hours in advance
  • I just want to watch the fireworks.: 30 minutes in advance (but location may be poor)
  • Purchase of Paid Seats: Simply follow the time specified in the ticket
Q
Can I bring a picnic mat?
A

Yes, you can! Many people bring picnic mats to sit on the ground. Recommended:

  • Choose a picnic mat that's lightweight and easy to carry.
  • Don't take up too much space (avoid disturbing others)
  • Remember to take it with you when you leave (don't leave trash)
Q
Can vendors take credit cards?
A

Most of the stalls Cash only. Recommendation:

  • Provision of 5,000-10,000 yen in cash
  • Have extra change (100 yen, 500 yen coins).
  • Some stalls may accept electronic payments (e.g. PayPay), but not universally
Q
Is the Fireworks Festival suitable for children?
A

Suitable! Many families will bring their children. But be careful:

  • CrowdedYou need to hold the child at all times.
  • Higher volume: The sound of fireworks may frighten small children.
  • Congestion on the way back: It is recommended to leave the venue early or wait for the crowd to disperse.
  • Toilet queue: Take your child to the toilet in advance
Q
Other than Tamagawa, what are some other recommended fireworks events?
A

Recommended fireworks events in Tokyo's suburbs:

Flower and Fire ClubLocationScaledistinctiveness
Sumida River Fireworks FestivalNear Asakusa and SkytreeAbout 20,000 roundsTokyo's largest and most famous
Edogawa Fireworks FestivalEdogawa-KawashikiAbout 14,000 rounds1,000 consecutive rounds in 5 seconds at the beginning of the game
Jingu Gaien Fireworks FestivalMeiji Jingu GaienApprox. 12,000 roundsPaid seating with music
Adachi Hanabi KaiArakawa-KawashikiApprox. 13,000 roundsEarliest organization in summer

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