Chichibu Night Festival 2025: Japan’s Spectacular Winter Fireworks and Floats (Live Update)
If you are currently in Japan or planning a trip near Tokyo, you are in luck. One of Japan’s most breathtaking winter events, the Chichibu Night Festival (Chichibu Yomatsuri), is happening right now!
Known as one of Japan’s “Big Three” float festivals—ranking alongside Kyoto’s famous Gion Festival—this event boasts over 2,000 years of history at the Chichibu Shrine. It is even recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, making it a global treasure.
Here is everything you need to know about the Chichibu Night Festival schedule, the massive floats, and the rare winter fireworks display.
Why the Chichibu Night Festival is a Must-See
Usually, fireworks in Japan are reserved for the summer. However, the Chichibu Night Festival offers a rare and magical experience: dazzling winter fireworks lighting up the night sky while massive, 20-ton lanterns floats (Yatai) parade through the streets.
These floats are not just vehicles; they are moving art pieces covered in lanterns, intricate carvings, and tapestries.
Chichibu Night Festival Schedule (December 2025)
The festival is split into two main days. If you are reading this entertainment news now, the action is already starting!
1. Tuesday, Dec. 2 (The Yomatsuri / Eve Festival)
- 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM: The magnificent floats are paraded through the streets.
- 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: The evening procession begins. This is a great time to see the lanterns glowing in the dark.
2. Wednesday, Dec. 3 (The Grand Festival – Main Event)
- 9:00 AM: The festivities begin with traditional music and dance performances on the floats.
- 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM (THE PEAK): This is the main highlight! The floats climb the steep slope to the plaza.
- 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM (FIREWORKS): A massive fireworks display is launched from Hitsujiyama Park, creating a stunning backdrop behind the illuminated floats.
💡 Travel Tip: The streets will be very crowded. Ensure you arrive early to get a good viewing spot for the fireworks!
How to Get There from Tokyo
Chichibu is easily accessible and makes for a perfect day trip from Tokyo.
- Fastest Route: Take the Limited Express (Red Arrow) from Ikebukuro Station to Seibu Chichibu Station. It takes about 80 minutes (reservation required).
- Budget Route: Take a local or semi-express train to Hanno, then switch to the Seibu-Chichibu Line (approx. 1 hour 50 minutes).
The festival area is within walking distance from Seibu Chichibu Station.
Watch The Viral Highlights
Can’t make it to the venue? The visuals from this year’s Chichibu Night Festival are already taking over social media. The combination of snow-capped mountains, night lanterns, and fireworks is unreal.
👉 Click Here to Watch the Exclusive Video Gallery & Live Drone Footage
