The nightly signature of Lake Toya Onsen, the “Lake Toya Long-Run Fireworks Festival,” is one of Japan’s longest-running firework displays—held almost every night from late April through the end of October. For roughly half a year, about 20 minutes of fireworks are launched over the lake each evening, making it one of the highlights of any Lake Toya trip. In this article, Kamonoya, a whole-house rental operator based here at Lake Toya Onsen, shares the essentials of the festival, tips for watching, and lodgings that are handy for enjoying the show.
What is the Lake Toya Long-Run Fireworks Festival?
A distinctive feature of the festival is that the fireworks are launched from a boat that moves along the lakeshore off the Lake Toya Onsen town. Because the launch boat travels across the water as it fires, you can enjoy the fireworks from anywhere along the onsen town.
- Season: Typically late April to October 31 (may be cancelled in bad weather)
- Launch time: About 20 minutes from around 20:45 every night
- Launch site: Off the lakeshore of Lake Toya Onsen town (launched while moving)
- Price: Free to watch (paid firework-viewing cruises are also available)
*For the latest dates and times, please check the official announcements of the Lake Toya Onsen Tourism Association.
Recommended ways to watch
1. A relaxed view from the lakeside promenade
The lakeside promenade along the onsen town is the classic spot—the fireworks are visible from anywhere along it. Strolling out to the lake in a yukata after dinner to watch is the Lake Toya way.
2. Up close from a firework-viewing cruise
During the season, firework-viewing cruises operate, letting you experience the launches up close from the water (paid; please check in advance).
3. In private from your own lodging
Stay at a lodging in the heart of Lake Toya Onsen and you can enjoy the fireworks at your own pace, without worrying about crowds. With a whole-house rental in particular, the greatest luxury is being able to wait for each night’s fireworks in a space that is yours alone—family or friends together, with dinner and drinks in hand.
Kamonoya’s whole-house rentals, handy for fireworks viewing
Kamonoya (KAMONOYA) runs 11 whole-house rental properties in the Lake Toya area. Several are right in the heart of Lake Toya Onsen where the fireworks go up, just a short walk from the lakeshore.
- Toya House — A whole-house rental in the center of the onsen town. Up to 8 guests, with BBQ facilities. From ¥24,000/night.
- Toya INN-West — Central, with a wood-burning stove. Up to 9 guests. From ¥25,000/night.
- Toya INN-East — Central, with a large screen. Up to 11 guests. From ¥30,000/night.
- Lake Toya Building 1R — An apartment-type unit for couples and small groups. From ¥7,000/night.
For our other properties, please see the list of facilities.
Booking tips for the fireworks season
Weekends during the fireworks season—especially summer break, the Obon holidays and long weekends—fill up early. Booking directly through our official site is the best-value official rate, with no agency commission (best-rate guarantee). Once your dates are set, start by checking availability. Check availability here.
FAQ
Q. Are the fireworks held every day?
A. In principle they are held every night during the season, but they may be cancelled in bad weather. For the latest information, please check the announcements of the Lake Toya Onsen Tourism Association.
Q. Are there fireworks in winter (November–April)?
A. The Long-Run Fireworks Festival usually ends at the end of October. In winter, other events such as illuminations take place.
Q. Is it enjoyable with children?
A. The launch is fairly short—about 20 minutes from around 20:45—so it’s easy to enjoy even with small children. Being able to watch within walking distance of your lodging is reassuring, too.