About 20 minutes by train from central Tokyo, the "Chofu Fireworks Festival" is an enchanting event where brilliant flowers burst into bloom in the night sky, held along the picturesque riverbed of the Tama River. This festival, celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2025, has become one of the most beloved fireworks events not just for locals but also for tourists drawn to the vibrant spirit of Tokyo.
"Fireworks festivals in Tokyo can seem overwhelming and crowded..."
For those with such concerns, the Chofu Fireworks, a bit removed from the bustling city center, offers a perfect escape. With its inviting atmosphere and ease of access, you can enjoy not just the breathtaking fireworks but also a delightful day filled with exploration and relaxation.
This article serves as your ultimate guide to the 2025 Chofu Fireworks Festival, providing essential details on access, how to enjoy it, and nearby attractions, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience for first-time visitors.
1. What is Chofu Fireworks?
The Chofu Fireworks Festival is a seasonal celebration organized by the city of Chofu, Tokyo, hosted in the captivating riverbed of the Tama River. Commemorating its 40th anniversary in 2025, the festival continues to grow in scale and popularity every year, making it a highlight of the autumn season.
Though it's easily reachable from central Tokyo, it offers a serene environment embraced by nature, perfect for those seeking a refreshing adventure during their sightseeing journey. This festival is an excellent opportunity for anyone eager to experience the breathtaking beauty of fireworks up close.
This festival transcends a mere fireworks display; it features dazzling fireworks synchronized with music, unique Chofu performances, and a plethora of gourmet food stalls that engage all five senses: sight, sound, and taste.
2. Basic Information about Chofu Fireworks
Date and Time
September 20, 2025 (Saturday)
Opening Ceremony: 18:00〜
Fireworks Launch: 18:15〜19:15
*Canceled in case of severe weather (light rain will continue)
Location
Along the Tama River in Chofu City
Primarily featuring three viewing areas: "Fuda Venue," "Keio Tamagawa Venue," and "Dentsu Venue."
The free viewing areas include "Fuda Venue" and "Keio Tamagawa Venue."
Fuda Venue Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zY2fWR61mPM3aDi8A
Keio Tamagawa Venue Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/moAzrkKHvTPPH5MD8
Seating
Paid seats will be available for advance purchase, alongside a free seating area. Paid seats are especially recommended for first-time visitors for their superior visibility, ease of restroom access, and the chance to avoid large crowds.
Cancellation in Case of Rain
The event will carry on in light rain, but it will be canceled during severe weather for safety reasons. Updates and cancellation notifications will be available on the official website and social media by the afternoon of the event day.
Number of Fireworks Launched
Expect around 10,000 fireworks to light up the night sky. Featuring a variety of performances, including star mines and shaku-dama (majestic fireballs over 30 cm in diameter), the festival promises a spectacular visual experience.
Annual Attendance
Approximately 300,000 to 350,000 people attend, making it a medium-scale fireworks festival in Tokyo, yet you can still revel in its vibrant atmosphere comfortably beside the river.
Official Website
3. Highlights and Features of Chofu Fireworks
The biggest highlight of the Chofu Fireworks Festival is the stunning "collaboration with music." The venue features state-of-the-art audio facilities, allowing the fireworks to be launched in perfect harmony with the rhythm and melody of the accompanying music.
Moreover, the unique performances that reflect Chofu's identity as a film town add to the festival's charm. Enjoy music related to cinema and captivating visual effects, which transform the fireworks into a mesmerizing form of entertainment.
In addition, the gourmet area showcases an impressive range of local Chofu specialties and delicacies from all over Japan. Typically, visitors will arrive in the early evening to savor the food stalls before settling down to watch the fireworks show as night falls.
4. History and Origins of Chofu Fireworks
The Chofu Fireworks Festival has a rich history dating back to 1933 (Showa 8). Once a local festival, it faced interruptions during World War II but was revived as the "All Japan Export Promotion Fireworks Competition" in the post-war era.
Since then, it has been an annual fixture, contributing to the revitalization of the local community in Chofu City, and has evolved into one of Tokyo's signature fireworks festivals.
In recent years, it has become known for its entertainment value, firmly established on the pillars of "music x fireworks," "community revitalization," and "cultural promotion."
5. Access Information
Nearest Stations and Access Methods
- Keio Line Chofu Station: About a 20-minute walk to the venue
- Keio Sagamihara Line Keio Tamagawa Station: About a 10-minute walk to the venue
- JR Nambu Line Yanokuchi Station (for those avoiding congestion): About a 25-minute walk to the venue
From downtown, you can reach Chofu Station in approximately 15-20 minutes via the express or semi-express trains on the Keio Line from Shinjuku Station.
Traffic Regulations and Congestion Tips for the Day
Traffic regulations will take effect around 17:00 on the festival day, leading to major congestion around the station and surrounding roads. It is advisable to utilize public transport and arrive as early as possible.
Notably, the area around Keio Tamagawa Station tends to be very crowded, so first-time visitors may find their experience smoother if they access the venue from Chofu Station instead.
Flow of People After Fireworks and Tips for Going Home
Anticipate significant congestion at the station immediately following the event's conclusion at 19:15. To navigate this:
- Consider staying for about 30 minutes after the fireworks
- Utilize a different station, such as Yanokuchi Station
- Take a short walk in the opposite direction of the station to ease congestion
Being strategic about your departure will make your journey home much more pleasant.
6. How to Enjoy Chofu Fireworks
Clothing
Evenings in late September can be a bit chilly, so it’s wise to bring a light wrap or shawl. Comfortable sneakers are the ideal footwear for this festive occasion.
Things to Bring
- Leisure sheet (for sitting in the free viewing area)
- Folding chair (for those who prefer to relax while waiting)
- Drinks (to avoid long lines at local convenience stores)
- Mobile battery (for communication and capturing unforgettable moments)
- Warm clothing (to keep snug against the evening breeze)
Food Stalls
Numerous stalls await around the venue, offering not only classic takoyaki and yakisoba but also local Chofu delicacies and craft beer that will tantalize your taste buds.
Most stalls open around 16:00, granting you the chance to leisurely walk around and sample food while avoiding the crowds by arriving early.
7. Precautions and Manners
Manners
- Always take your trash home or dispose of it in designated recycling bins
- Reserving spots that block other people's views is discouraged
- Refrain from loud noises or drunken behavior
Peak Times and Areas of Congestion
- Expect peak congestion from 17:30 to 18:30, as long lines at stalls will likely ensue.
- The free viewing area along the riverbed starts to fill up around 15:00, so arrive early.
Behavior During Crowds
- Exercise caution against reckless movements or cutting lines, as this can lead to accidents.
- Follow the instructions of staff members for a safer experience.
- Parents should implement measures to prevent their little ones from getting lost in the crowd.
Others
- Drone photography is strictly prohibited in the area
- Smoking is only permitted in designated smoking areas
- It is advisable to refrain from bringing pets for their safety and comfort
8. Nearby Tourist Spots
Chofu is renowned as the "town of movies," with numerous attractions to explore before and after the fireworks.
- Kadokawa Daiei Studio (exterior visits allowed)
Jindaiji Temple: A historic temple famous for its delightful soba noodles
Jindai Botanical Park: One of Tokyo's most prestigious botanical gardens
- Chofu PARCO: A convenient hub for shopping and snacks
A little further afield, explore delightful spots like Kichijoji and Inokashira Park, making it the perfect day for sightseeing.
9. In Conclusion
In this article, we have outlined everything you need to know about the 2025 Chofu Fireworks Festival, from basic information to access and enjoyable experiences.
- Easily accessible from the city center and designed for first-time visitors
- Scheduled for September 20, 2025, featuring approximately 10,000 stunning fireworks
- Experience captivating fireworks synchronized perfectly with enchanting music
- Both paid and free seats are available, with early arrival highly recommended
- Savor delectable stalls and explore nearby attractions as well
The Chofu Fireworks Festival is a rare occasion where Japan's rich traditions and entertainment seamlessly blend. If your travels take you to Tokyo this autumn, make sure to mark it on your itinerary. It promises to be an unforgettable experience that sets itself apart from your usual encounters.
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