5 reasons Zekkei Fireworks at Mt Fuji make for a unique Japanese springtime experience

Among Japan’s many amazing attractions and experiences, Mt Fuji, cherry blossoms and fireworks often top visitors' lists. But these three icons are rarely found together, especially since Japan’s fireworks festivals mostly take place in summer, while the cherry blossoms bloom for only a week or two in spring.

On April 25, Zekkei Fireworks will change that. This unique event will bring all three cherished Japanese symbols together in one unforgettable celebration. Held at Fujiten Snow Resort at Mt Fuji’s first station, the pyrotechnic extravaganza offers the ideal springtime experience. Attendees can enjoy panoramic views of Mt Fuji and the beauty of sakura, all while being immersed in a mesmerising display of fireworks.

The event will open its doors at 4pm, with fireworks launching at 6.30pm, lasting for around 60 minutes.

Fireworks in Japan are in a league of their own, with most pyrotechnic events lasting around an hour and featuring breathtaking displays of colours and burst patterns. And with the Zekkei organisers bringing in four of the country’s top pyrotechnicians for the event every year, you can be sure it will be sensational.

The four companies set to showcase their craft at Zekkei are long-established and highly decorated pyrotechnic producers, each having honed their skills and artistry for over a century. Nagano-based Beniya Aoki is credited with creating new techniques for colourful, flower-like bursts such as Miraibana and Poinsettia. Based in Okazaki, Isogai Fireworks has won the Prime Minister's Award twice at the Omagari National Fireworks Competition, one of the most renowned fireworks shows in Japan.

Yamanashi’s Saiki Fireworks is renowned for its vibrant pyrotechnic designs, particularly the Seireika, which features light blue, pink and lemon yellow sparkles with a fine white flashing star at the centre. Kikuya Obata Fireworks, from Gunma prefecture, is the oldest of the four and a master of the challenging chrysanthemum-shaped fireworks known as Yoeshingiku.

There’s more. In an effort to add even more pyrotechnical variety to the show, the organisers have invited a renowned fireworks company from northern Japan to showcase their expertise alongside the four aforementioned masters for the Zekkei Fireworks.

Joining from Akita prefecture is Kitanihon Hanabi, established in 1899. One of the leading producers of fireworks for their home region’s pride and joy, the Omagari National Fireworks Competition, they are famed for pioneering fireworks displays synchronised to music.

Kitanihon Hanabi is headed by Yoshikazu Konno, a fireworks artisan whose masterful pyrotechnic arrangements range from elaborate patterns to familiar pop-culture characters. This fourth-generation fireworks impresario has been recognised as a contemporary master craftsman by the Japanese government.

With its picturesque location in one of Japan's most iconic settings, Zekkei Fireworks is an exclusive event accessible only to ticket holders. However, this exclusivity is balanced by a wide variety of ticket options to suit all types of spectators, with prices catering to different budgets.

Solo visitors (from ¥35,000) are welcomed, and there are also bundle tickets for two (from ¥65,000) and families of four (from ¥120,000). For those wishing to make the most of this special opportunity, there are VIP (¥150,000) and VVIP seats (¥250,000). These ultra-premium tickets come with a host of luxuries, including gourmet food service and a personal reclining chair for ultimate relaxation while enjoying the fireworks.

Photographers aiming to capture that perfect shot of stunning fireworks against the backdrop of Mt Fuji can opt for the ‘green’ or ‘VIP photographer’ seats. Priced at ¥40,000 and ¥80,000 respectively, these tickets offer a panoramic view of the evening’s showcase.

Unlike most fireworks events in Japan, which are often packed with people – especially in the free areas – Zekkei Fireworks' all-ticketed access ensures fewer crowds. What’s more, the event will only admit 3,000 people, even though the venue can accommodate up to 10,000. This means you’ll have plenty of space to relax, and the serene natural environment allows you to fully enjoy Mt Fuji, cherry blossoms and fireworks in peace.

Despite the location outside the city, getting to the venue is straightforward. Ticketed parking is available, and as spaces are limited, traffic congestion is unlikely. Even better, you can reach the venue conveniently via public transport, with shuttle services (ticketed) running between Kawaguchiko Station and the site. This could well be the most relaxing way to experience springtime in Japan.

Zekkei Fireworks will take place on Saturday April 25 at Fujiten Snow Resort. Doors open at 4pm, with the fireworks show starting at 6.30pm. Get your tickets now via the event website.