The Riverside of Omono River, Daisen Akita Prefecture

A tradition dating back to 1910, this fireworks festival is known throughout Japan as the definitive fireworks meet, with pyrotechnicians from throughout the nation competing to show off their skills. The new technologies on display top themselves every year, and the stories told by the displays and innovative production values are highlights. Competitors vie in three categories: daytime fireworks, #10 round-shell fireworks, and creative fireworks. The overall champion receives the Prime Minister's Prize. The finale, featuring wide starmines a year in the making from the Omagari Fireworks Cooperative Association, is an absolute can't-miss, with a story and scale that leaves viewers speechless.

15-2 Shindenomote Kyowa Arakawa, Daisen 019-2412 Akita Prefecture

Kitanaraoka, Daisen 019-1702 Akita Prefecture

Nagano, Daisen 014-0207 Akita Prefecture

84, KyowasakaI, Shimodai, Daisen Akita Prefecture