Lake Biwa Fireworks 2025
History of the Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival (びわ湖大花火大会) The Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival, held annually in Ōtsu City, Shiga Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most iconic and spectacular summer events. With a tradition dating back over a century, it showcases a breathtaking display of artistry and community spirit around Japan’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Biwa. Origins and Early History The festival began in 1899 as a small local event meant to honor those lost at sea and to pray for safety and good fortune. Fireworks were launched over the waters of Lake Biwa as a symbolic gesture of remembrance and celebration. Over the years, the event grew steadily in scale […]