Seeing as it's the 4th of July here in Japan, I only thought it fitting to post Atami's famous summer fireworks display schedule. On my arrival in Atami I was lucky enough to see one of these and hope that I might get the chance to see another before my time in Japan comes to an end.

The display itself lasts about 30 minutes and ends in one of the most impressive finales I've seen in all of my years. If you have the chance to enjoy the show, I highly suggest you do so as there are many different times available.

July:

From the 23rd to the 28th, Atami will have fireworks every night from 8:20 to 8:50. Just as a note, the fireworks can be seen from Japan Countryside's porch. However, if you leave at about 6:30 or 7PM, chances are you would have a much better viewing at the sun beach or one of the many locations leading up to the beach. A couple of the Lawson's in the area have a second level seating area very near the beach that would offer a great view of the action.

August:

August spreads the fireworks or "hanabi" out more evenly across the month with shows on the 5th, 8th, 18th, 20th and 24th. These shows go from 8:20 to 8:50 as well and are held in the same location.

September:

Technically this is part of the fall fireworks display, but if you can't make it to Atami until September, you'll just have one show to catch being on the 18th. As this is after peak season, it might be less crowded going during this day and might even afford you a front row seat on the beach.

Here's a picture of the rest of the fireworks display with the dates being in English:

Speaking of if you want an up close and personal display of the fireworks, there are many other viewing options outside of the few I listed here. My best advice would be to get to Atami a day or two earlier and explore the bay/beach area. From there you'll find plenty of areas that catch your eye ranging from cozy cafes, fisherman's docks, a buzzing beach or a peaceful sidewalk bench. Atami Castle even has summertime festivals to attend during the day or night that would also make for an interesting vantage point to view the fireworks from as you'd be practically level with the display.

If you'll be in Atami during any of these times make sure to leave time for the fireworks. You won't regret it. For more information on the event and others like it, you can visit this web page and google translate it if you aren't properly proficient in Japanese: Atami Fireworks Schedule.