Two Islands Firing at Each Other: The Kanmon Strait Fireworks

Japan's only fireworks festival staged across a prefectural border, from both shores of a strait 700 metres wide. Every seat is paid, and they sell out.

Two Islands Firing at Each Other: The Kanmon Strait Fireworks

Photo: Kitakyushu City

On 13 August 2026, around 18,000 fireworks rise over the Kanmon Strait, launched at the same time from Moji in Kitakyushu and Shimonoseki in Yamaguchi. The two cities run separate events on one night, under one name. At its narrowest, the strait is barely 700 metres across.

WHY THIS ONE IS DIFFERENT

Here there are two launch points, on opposite shores, in different prefectures and on different islands. Wherever you stand, roughly half the show is happening across the water and reflecting in the channel. The Kanmon Bridge, two city skylines and the history of Dan-no-ura form the setting.

BOOK A SEAT

There is no free waterfront viewing. Tickets are required on both shores, and a Moji ticket does not admit you to Shimonoseki, or the reverse. Decide which shore you want before booking.

  • Date: 13 August 2026 (Thursday), 39th edition
  • Scale: About 18,000 shells
  • Official Info: kanmon-hanabi.love

GETTING THERE

Kitakyushu is the first Kyushu stop on the Sanyo Shinkansen, about 20 minutes from Hakata. Mojiko Station is a short local ride from Kokura. Trains after the show are extremely crowded.

Source: Kitakyushu City | kanmon-hanabi.love