Narita Hanabi

The Narita Hanabi is a fireworks event organised by community volunteers and firework makers that takes place above the freshly cut rice fields around Narita. Unfortunately, this being the case, the venue is about 4km from Narita Station so you’ll need to take a taxi or arrange your own transport. The organisers run a photography contest each year and the photograph above is from one of the entrants. Known for its “spectator-participatory” style, it was the first fireworks show in the world to receive a Good Design Award for its innovative choreography and musical synchronization.

A dedicated shuttle bus service typically operates from the east exit of JR Narita Station, which is the most reliable way to bypass the significant traffic congestion on the narrow roads surrounding the rice fields. The event’s signature “Narita Golden Box” finale uses a massive surround-sound system that is only fully audible from the primary viewing areas, as the pyrotechnics are frame-synced to a specific musical score.