The Katakai Festival near Tsunan in Niigata Prefecture is world-renowned for launching the Yonshakudama — a fireworks shell measuring roughly 1.2 metres in diameter and weighing nearly 420 kg — which unfolds into a bloom nearly 800 metres wide, recognised by Guinness World Records as the largest single fireworks shell ever fired. The festival dates back centuries and retains a deeply local, community character despite its global fame. Visitors travel from across Japan and overseas specifically to witness this singular pyrotechnic achievement. The surrounding rice-farming countryside and late-summer evening air add to the memorable atmosphere.
- Type
- Festival
- Category
- Fireworks
- Season
- Summer
- Month
- Early September
- Region
- Chubu
- Prefecture
- Niigata
- City
- Katakai (Tsunan area, Kashiwazaki)
Highlights
- ◆Home of the Guinness-certified world's largest fireworks shell
- ◆Yonshakudama bloom expands to nearly 800 metres in diameter
- ◆Centuries-old community festival with authentic local spirit
- ◆Draws international fireworks enthusiasts and photographers
- ◆Scenic Niigata rice-field countryside setting