There are few sights more magical than fireworks (hanabi) bursting over Yokohama’s Minato Mirai skyline, their colours mirrored in the bay beside the glowing Ferris wheel and illuminated towers. Summer is firework season across Japan, and Yokohama’s waterfront — with its open harbour, parks and promenades — makes one of the country’s most photogenic backdrops. From large bay-side festivals to special event displays, tens of thousands gather on warm evenings in yukata to watch the sky light up. Pair a display with a Minato Mirai stroll and harbour dinner for a quintessential Japanese summer night.

This guide covers the displays, the best viewing spots, timing and access.

🗓️ Quick Reference
Location Yokohama bay & Minato Mirai, Kanagawa
Season Summer (mainly July–August)
Highlight Fireworks over the illuminated skyline
Best time Evening; arrive well before start
Good for Couples, families, summer atmosphere

The fireworks

  • Summer hanabi events light up the bay with thousands of shells over the water.
  • The backdrop of the Minato Mirai skyline, Cosmo Clock 21 and harbour makes Yokohama’s displays especially scenic.
  • Dates and event names change yearly — check the current schedule before planning.

Best viewing spots

  • Rinko Park, Cosmo World area and the Akarenga (Red Brick) waterfront offer open bay views.
  • Yamashita Park and the harbour promenade are classic vantage points.
  • Higher floors of waterfront hotels and restaurants give premium views (reserve early).

Tips

  • Arrive early to claim a spot — crowds are huge and trains pack out afterward.
  • Bring a leisure sheet, water and a fan; many wear summer yukata.
  • Confirm the year’s event and any ticketed seating in advance.

Combine your visit

Fireworks cap off a Minato Mirai evening:

How to get there

  • Minatomirai Line to Minatomirai or Bashamichi Station, a short walk to the bay.
  • ~30 min from central Tokyo to Yokohama.