Japanese Summer Festivals Celebrate Tradition in Fuji City and Ama Town

The 36th Fujikawa Summer Festival will be held on August 1, 2026 at the Fujikawa River embankment in Fuji City, Shizuoka Prefecture. The event features a fireworks display starting at 7 p.m., including hand‑held tube fireworks, and a program of performances by local fire‑fighter bands, dance groups, and school marching teams. Visitors are urged to use public transport, as on‑site parking is limited.

From July 14‑16, 2024, Ama Town on the Noto Peninsula hosted large‑scale district festivals in the Hishin and Fukui areas. The celebrations included traditional Shinto rites such as the ritual placement of the divine spirit (御魂入れ), processions with portable shrines (神輿), and evening dances. Both districts featured vibrant parades, music, and community participation, drawing large crowds from the town’s most populous neighborhoods.

Both festivals highlight the continued importance of seasonal community gatherings in Japan, combining fireworks, shrine ceremonies, and local performances to attract residents and tourists alike.