Event Overview
The 98th National Fireworks Competition
Evening Fireworks: 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
The National Fireworks Competition brings together Japan’s top hanabi artists, each competing for the most prestigious honor in Japanese fireworks — the Prime Minister’s Prize. First held in 1910, this historic event is celebrated for its unmatched tradition and artistry. It also remains Japan’s only competition featuring daytime fireworks, where color and smoke replace light as the medium of expression.
As the crowd gathers along the riverbank, anticipation fills the air. Every shell — its theme, color, rhythm, and sound — reflects the imagination and mastery of its creator. From the opening to the grand finale, the night sky over Omagari is filled with one breathtaking performance after another: competition entries, a special display by the previous year’s champion, and the monumental competition sponsor display that brings the night to a dramatic close.
- Daytime Fireworks
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The only daytime fireworks competition in Japan. Instead of light, these displays use smoke color, density, and form to express artistry with subtle technical precision. Each competitor fires five #5 shells, testing their skill in creating vivid color even against daylight.
- Evening Fireworks
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The night competition unfolds in three categories:
- #10 Regulated Shell (Pistil Warimono): A traditional spherical chrysanthemum-style shell of three or more layers — the ultimate test of balance and precision.
- #10 Freestyle Shell: Competitors are free to experiment with form — from “shell-of-shells” that blanket the sky to pattern shells that replicate shapes and characters. Creative and elaborate designs are composed from a single burst.
- Creative Hanabi: The centerpiece of Omagari’s identity. Combining color, rhythm, sound, and movement, competitors deliver a two-and-a-half-minute performance that transforms the sky into a work of art.
Competition Results
Event Details
- Event Name
- The 98th National Fireworks Competition
- Date
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Saturday, August 29, 2026 *In case of bad weather, a new date will be decided based on forecast conditions.
- Time
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Daytime Fireworks: 5:10 PM – 6:00 PM /
Evening Fireworks: 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM *Gates open at 3:00 PM.
- Venue
- Omagari Hanabi Park (Omono Riverbank, Daisen City, Akita Prefecture)
- Hosted by
- Omagari Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Daisen City
- Entrants
- Participating Companies: 28
- Program
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- Competition Fireworks
- Daytime: Five #5 shells
- Evening:
- Regulated Shell Division: One #10 shell
- Freestyle Shell Division: One #10 shell
- Creative Hanabi: Up to 2 min 30 sec
- Special Programs
- Sponsor Fireworks
- Finale Fireworks
*Program subject to change. - Competition Fireworks
- Shell Count
- Approximately 18,000
- Food Stalls
- Available on site
Seating Information
Ticket Information
Highlights
Watch Highlights
Annual Sponsors
Contact
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