Kashima — On the evening of 26th July, Etomo Fishing Port in Kashima-cho, Matsue City, was filled with excitement as the annual fireworks festival took place. This much-loved event has become a symbol of the start of summer for the local community.
The festival, which was initiated by a group of local volunteers with the hope of fostering a sense of pride and attachment to Kashima-cho in the area’s children, celebrated its 12th edition this year. As depopulation continues and many children leave for the centre of Matsue or other parts of the country after they reach adulthood, this festival was planned to help foster a sense of attachment to the local area in the younger generation.
Two hours before the main event, a few test fireworks (known as kūhō, or blank shots) were fired, building anticipation among the crowd. Another round of test shots went up an hour before the official start. At 8:00 p.m., following a countdown from the event’s chairperson, the much-anticipated fireworks display began. Locals gathered at Nada, a popular spot along the shore, while the gentle sea breeze added to the relaxed, festive atmosphere, setting the stage for a perfect evening.
For the small fishing village, this event is the main occasion when the village shines the brightest, bringing together the community in celebration.
With the summer holidays underway, many families took the opportunity to attend, creating a lively mood as parents and children alike enjoyed the show together.
Despite the economic challenges facing the region and rising living costs, the event went off without a hitch, showcasing the resilience and spirit of the community.
The fireworks were launched from the nearby Koura fishing village, which, like Etomo, has seen a quieter pace of life in recent years. However, on this night, the harbour came alive once again, as people from both the local community and beyond gathered to witness the dazzling display. The red and white lighthouses, symbols of Etomo’s past, lit up the sea, evoking memories of a time when the port town thrived on its abundant fishing industry.
At 8:00 p.m., 2,000 fireworks lit up the sky in a spectacular array of colours — blue, red, yellow, purple, and green. The whoosh as they ascended, followed by a sharp bang when they exploded, filled the air. The breathtaking display captivated the audience, and excited voices of children shouting “Wow, wow!” echoed through the crowd. As the final burst of fireworks lit up the sky, a wave of applause erupted, marking the end of a memorable evening.
The light of the fireworks, the glow of the lighthouse, and the lights of ships sailing in the distance created a fantastical scene beneath the purple night sky to the west.
The vibrant colours that filled the night sky left a lasting impression on everyone who attended, reinforcing the sense of unity and celebration that this cherished local tradition represents.
ーTakashi Saito