Hanabi - Traditional Japanese fireworks
Japan-Tag Fireworks
Japanese fireworks, known as Hanabi, have a long tradition and are deeply rooted in Japanese culture.
In Japan, fireworks are traditionally organised in summer and are considered the highlight of numerous festivals. They symbolise the transience and beauty of life, comparable to the cherry blossom in spring. Fireworks are artistically designed to create impressive patterns and colours in the sky.
Theme of this year's fireworks display
What a wonderful World –
A Firework display full of joy
Under the theme “What a Wonderful World – A Firework Display Full of Joy”, this year’s Japanese fireworks display tells a story of the beauty of our planet and the responsibility we bear for it. Inspired by Louis Armstrong’s famous song, the display weaves together moments of joy, hope and reflection.
A visually striking narrative unfolds in five scenes across the sky above Düsseldorf: from the unifying power of a smile, through the diversity of nature, to the desire for peace, love and a hopeful future. Colours, shapes and effects become symbols of confidence, compassion and collective action, inviting us to gaze at the world with wonder for a moment.
Renowned fireworks master
Hideki Kubota
Japan-Tag (Japan Day) continues this tradition and presents a spectacular fireworks display every year, designed and choreographed by the renowned Japanese fireworks master Hideki Kubota. Kubota is known for his ability to combine traditional Japanese fireworks with modern elements. The 2024 fireworks display was themed ‘Gold medals and golden rain over Düsseldorf: Olympic sparkle from Tokyo to Paris’ and offered spectators an impressive 25-minute sequence.
Hideki Kubota, © Kai Kuczera
Kubota's fireworks are characterised by the precise coordination of colours, shapes and effects that paint artistic pictures in the Düsseldorf night sky. His involvement in Japan-Tag (Japan Day) in Düsseldorf plays a key role in bringing Japanese culture and tradition to a wider audience in Germany.
