The Iwakuni Port Fireworks event is one of my favorites! Beautiful fireworks shot up over the water and a grand finale that brought tears to my eyes. It was that beautiful. They choreographed the grand finale to a beautiful song. I’m getting goosebumps now just thinking about it.

We took snacks and something to sit on, but neither are necessary. There are some food stands at the event and sitting on the ground (concrete) is an option, as is standing to watch the fireworks.

Iwakuni Port Fireworks

The Iwakuni Port Fireworks event is not too far from the base, but there’s not a whole lot of parking. I’ve been told that there is parking at the elementary school right past the port, but it fills up pretty quickly.

Another option is to take the bus from Iwakuni Station. When I took the bus last year, the cost was ¥170 each way for adults and ¥90 each way for children. The bus started departing from Bus Stop 1 (in front of the station) at 1730 and continued to shuttle passengers to the port until 2015. The buses returning to Iwakuni Station started departing the port area at 2000 and ended at 2200. I will say that the line for the bus to return to Iwakuni Station was very long. My friend and I waited in line for a while to get on a bus going back. We were expecting it though so it was fine.

The fireworks started at 2000 and ended at 2100. I took the bus and arrived at the event at around 1900. There were still some great spots available when I got there. For those planning on driving, I do recommend going earlier because parking might be a little bit of a challenge.

Here is the pin – https://goo.gl/maps/xy2K7rVYak32 **parking is a little past the port, on the left**

According to their website, the Iwakuni Port Fireworks event is held on the 3rd Saturday in July every year.

4 responses to “Iwakuni Port Fireworks”

  1. Hi L! I just recommended your site to a guy I work with from Columbia University in NY. His name is Jeremy Brooks. He is a “big time foodie” so I thought your site would be to his taste (ha ha).

    I hope you are doing well! Tess and I would be happy to host you if you ever get out to the D.C. area. When I see your site, I miss many things from Japan. You have a fantastic bunch of photos and advice!

    Best wishes to you and I hope all is well!!!

    1. Hi Casey! Thank you! 🙂
      I miss you guys and hope I can plan a visit next year!
      Hope all is well with you all too!

  2. Hi, Nice blog. I have been to Kintai Kyo bridge during the cherry blossoms season and I am planning to go see the fireworks this year/tomorrow Aug3. However, everytime I think of the line for the bus going back to Iwakuni station after the fireworks makes me wanna change my mind. How long do you have to line up to ride the bus? Is there no other way? Thanks!

    1. Hi Russel! Thank you!
      Yes…. the Kintai fireworks are amazing, but it is also very crowded. I believe they do bring extra busses in, but the lines are still very long. I usually drive because I live a little ways out in the opposite direction. The only other way would be to walk. It’s a long walk though. I’m sorry… I don’t really have a good solution for you.
      I do think it’s worth it though. Every year I go and I complain about the heat and the crowds and how long it takes me to get out of there when it’s over, but then I find myself looking forward to going again the next year! 🙂

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