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 19, 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 50 to 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 this event, 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.

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 their effort to use pyrotechnics as a means of uniting the world, the organisers have invited two prestigious fireworks companies from abroad to collaborate with the four aforementioned Japanese masters for the Zekkei Fireworks.

Joining from Spain is Ricasa Ricardo Caballero, established in 1881. One of the leading producers of fireworks in their home country, they have also been involved in numerous high-profile displays worldwide, including those at the Sydney Olympic ceremonies in 2000.

Representing America is Pyro Spectaculars, founded in 1906. This renowned fireworks company produces around 400 fireworks shows a year in the US alone, including the Macy’s Independence Day extravaganza. Their work also extends globally, from Olympic ceremonies to world tours of top-tier artists.

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 ¥30,000) are welcomed, and there are also bundle tickets for couples (from ¥55,000) and families of four (from ¥110,000). For those wishing to make the most of this special opportunity, there are VVIP seats (¥200,000). 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 ‘standard’ or ‘VIP photographer’ seats. Priced at ¥40,000 and ¥60,000 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 19 at Fujiten Snow Resort. Doors open at 4pm, with the fireworks show starting at 6.30pm. Get your tickets now via the event website.