Matsue Suigosai Fireworks Festival

Held over two days in early August each year in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture, this is one of Japan’s premier lake fireworks festivals. The vivid fireworks bursting across the night sky, mirrored on the serene surface of Lake Shinji, create a stunning scene that draws spontaneous gasps of awe. The lakeside celebration features spectacular displays reflected on the water, launches from floating platforms, and a powerful drone show that sweeps across the night lake, attracting large numbers of visitors every year.

Highlights include continuous angled launches, rapid-fire star mines with large shells, and simultaneous launches from four floating barges-along with the festival’s signature “cascading curtain” effects that can only be achieved in such a vast venue. In 2025, the event opened with a drone show featuring 888 drones, followed by 10,000 fireworks on the first night and 11,000 on the second, all launched over the lake.

Beyond the fireworks, the festive atmosphere is enhanced by a lively selection of food stalls. From takoyaki and yakisoba to fried chicken and a variety of snacks, the wide range of festival food adds to the excitement and enjoyment of the occasion.