Matsugasaki Park (Venue of the Yonezawa Cool-Summer Water Fireworks Festival) (松が岬公園(米沢納涼水上花火大会会場))

Flow of the course

About this spot

The Yonezawa Cool-Summer Water Fireworks Festival (米沢納涼水上花火大会) is held every August on the moat of Matsugasaki Park, and is a signature summer fireworks festival in Yonezawa. True to its name as a “water fireworks festival,” the fireworks launched over the moat's surface bloom brilliantly in the sky while also casting vivid light onto the water below, giving you a double dose of beauty. Watching the fireworks against the silhouette of the castle ruins' pine trees and stone walls is a scene unique to Matsugasaki Park. The launch sounds echoing through the sky reverberate within the moat-enclosed space, giving the impact an extra-special resonance you can feel in your body. Enjoy this summer tradition, passed down in the Uesugi clan's former castle town, together as a family from the moatside.

Fireworks details

Tips

Always check official announcements from Yonezawa City or the festival organizers for whether it will proceed in bad weather. Viewing spots within the park are free, but arrive early to claim a good one. Roads around the venue and the area toward Yonezawa Station get crowded afterward, so it's a good idea to linger in the park for a while after the fireworks end before heading out. Check your return transportation (the JR Yonesaka Line, the Ou Main Line, or a taxi) in advance.

Best time to visit

Timed to the 7:30pm start — secure your viewing spot at least 30 minutes beforehand.

Access & map

Yamagata-ken, Yonezawa-shi, Matsugasaki Park