The Anjin Festival (Anjinsai) is one of Izu’s largest summer events, held over three days in Ito City. The celebration features a variety of performances, including traditional Japanese taiko drumming and a floating lantern ceremony. On the final night, approximately 10,000 fireworks light up the night sky in a breathtaking display.
This year, the weather forecast predicted rain, so I assumed the fireworks would be canceled. I was sipping drinks at home when the rain eased a little—so I decided to head out at the last minute.
Driving through the drizzle, I wondered, “Will it really happen?”
A quick check on X (formerly Twitter) confirmed the show was still on.
Front-row Dining Views
Right in front of the fireworks launch site on the coastline sits Restaurant Calypso. If you reserve a meal here, you can watch the show from a temporary terrace set up outside the restaurant—a true VIP seat.
Along the same stretch, the seaside branch of Gusto (a Japanese family restaurant) also joins in the fun. During the fireworks, the lights inside are dimmed to create a viewing-friendly atmosphere. From its large windows, you can enjoy an unobstructed, comfortable view of the dazzling display.
The Festival Atmosphere
The main shopping street had fewer stalls than usual, but still buzzed with energy.
Parking was completely full everywhere, yet by sheer luck I found a spot near Tokaikan—just a short walk to the venue.
Along the riverbank, a row of food stalls offered festival favorites, adding delicious aromas to the night air.
One of the most striking things about fireworks in Izu is how close they are. The booming sound reverberates through your body, and in between launches, sponsor announcements fill the air—adding a charming, local flavor.
It’s fun to hear familiar store names and think, “Oh, I know that place!” or “They must be doing well!”
The rain kept coming and going, so I alternated between opening and closing my umbrella. The fireworks stretched wide across the horizon, creating a panoramic spectacle. The close range meant the vibrations of the explosions resonated deep within my chest.
The grand finale began with music—
“Ah-pa-tsu, Ah-pa-tsu, Aha, Aha, Aha…”
The playlist wasn’t what I expected, but it carried a nostalgic charm that somehow fit the night.
We chatted about it on the way home, still wrapped in the afterglow of the festival.
Access Information
Venue: Along the Matsukawa River and Ito Coast, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan
Main Area: Around Matsukawabashi Bridge to Ito Coast; fireworks are launched from both the sea and the riverside.
By Train:
- 5–10 minutes on foot from JR Ito Line / Izukyu Line Ito Station
- From the station, walk along the Matsukawa River for easy access to the fireworks area and food stalls.
By Car:
- About 2 hrs from Atsugi IC via Odawara-Atsugi Road
- About 1.5 hrs from Numazu IC or Nagakawa-Numazu IC via Izu Chuo Road
Note: Parking lots in the city fill up quickly during the festival. Arrive early if possible. Some roads are closed for traffic control—check the Ito City Tourism Association website in advance.
Parking:
- Temporary parking available (e.g., near Ito City Tourist Hall in most years)
- Paid parking lots in the city center, near Tokaikan, and around the station
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