When you hear "Kamakura in summer," what kind of scenery comes to mind?
Lush green mountains and historic temples and shrines.
The Enoden train leisurely traversing the town.
The wide blue sea and the beach at sunset.
And large fireworks blooming across the night sky.
The Kamakura Fireworks Festival is an event that attracts many visitors every year.
In 2026, it is scheduled to be held on Friday, July 10th.
Last year, unfortunately, the event was canceled due to high waves and strong winds.
Therefore, this year's festival will be the first in two years, making it a highly anticipated day for many.
The Kamakura Fireworks Festival: 78 Years of History
The Kamakura Fireworks Festival began in 1948 (Showa 23), just three years after the end of the war.
It started with the wish to honor those who died in the war and to bring hope and energy to those who were beginning to rebuild.
This year marks the 78th festival. Even as times change, the scene of many people gathering on the same beach to look up at the night sky every summer has been passed down.
People who come with family.
People laughing with friends.
People quietly waiting for the fireworks with loved ones.
Each summer's memories gradually accumulate on this beach.
Knowing this history, the fireworks festival feels less like just an event and more like one of the scenes that define Kamakura's summer.
Wake up a little early and head to Kamakura
On the day of the Kamakura Fireworks Festival, Kamakura Station and the Enoden line become increasingly crowded as evening approaches.
Long queues form at restaurants, people start reserving spots on the beach to watch the fireworks, and the entire town gradually transforms into a summer festival atmosphere.
If you want to enjoy Kamakura at a leisurely pace, it's best to arrive in the morning.
Kamakura in the morning still has a relaxed pace.
Enjoying breakfast at a café or restaurant that opens early and starting your day slowly is a luxury unique to this time.
At the green market called Renbai (Kamakura City Agricultural Cooperative Federation Direct Sales Office), which opens at 8 AM, farmers display freshly picked vegetables, and locals and chefs from nearby restaurants come to shop.
The aroma of freshly baked bread wafts through the air, and locals on bicycles go about their shopping—this is the morning scene.
Unlike the bustling tourist hours, this is a time to experience the peaceful side of the town.
Today, let's walk through Kamakura on the day of the fireworks festival with Tamaki-san.
"It's the fireworks festival today, so it'll probably be crowded in the evening,"
Tamaki-san murmured as she woke up a little earlier than usual and headed to Kamakura.
"Where should I go?"
One of the charms of visiting in the morning is the ability to wander around based on your mood, without a strict plan.
Linen Gathered Waist Dress Blue
Kamakura Weather in July
As you stroll through the town, soaking in the atmosphere of Kamakura, the scent of brewing coffee gently wafts by.
Next to old, beloved shops, small galleries and general stores line the streets, and if you wander down an intriguing alley, you might stumble upon an unexpected scene—that's the charm of Kamakura.
Walking along Yuigahama Dori, Tamaki-san thought about her outfit for the day.
"Was this outfit okay?"
After walking for a while, the sunlight felt stronger than she expected.
Nevertheless, thanks to choosing clothes made of breathable natural materials, the heat wasn't too bothersome.
For those visiting the Kamakura Fireworks Festival for the first time, you might be wondering, "What should I wear in Kamakura in July?"
In Kamakura in July, the daytime high temperatures often exceed 30°C, marking the full arrival of summer.
Since you'll be walking in strong sunlight, light cotton or breathable natural materials like linen, which dries quickly even when you sweat, are recommended.
On the other hand, the seaside has the unique Kamakura sea breeze. Even if it's hot during the day, a pleasant breeze starts to blow on the beach as evening approaches, and it can feel a little cool by the time you're waiting for the fireworks.
Tamaki-san thought, "Maybe I should have brought a cardigan, a light shirt, or even a stole."
As she walked, pondering this, she stopped in front of a small shop called MAR and went inside.
"I wonder if there's anything new in stock."
Without a large signboard, the quiet shop played gentle music, displaying clothes made of natural materials and minimalist accessories that weren't too flashy.
Time spent slowly browsing clothes at your own pace, without being rushed by anyone.
Enveloped in that comfort, Tamaki-san tried on a light linen shirt in front of the mirror.
Naturally, she imagined herself walking along the beach at sunset.
"With this, the evening sea breeze should feel comfortable."
Thinking that, this single item felt even more appealing.
Clothes are not just for matching the day's plans, but for feeling comfortable yourself.
With that thought, Tamaki-san picked up her favorite item and left the store.
"I have a feeling this will come in handy this evening."
She had that premonition.
To the beach house for lunch. How to enjoy Yuigahama and Zaimokuza
Before she knew it, the clock hands had just passed noon.
The summer sun was stronger than in the morning.
"Time to head to the beach!"
As she started walking with that thought, the scent of the sea, carried on the wind, gradually drew closer.
On her way to the sea, Tamaki-san paused for a moment.
Should I go to Yuigahama today? Or Zaimokuza?
Kamakura has two beaches that, though adjacent, each possess a distinct charm.
Yuigahama Beach is Kamakura's representative swimming beach. Unique beach houses line the shore, each with its own music, food, and interior design, creating a lively summer atmosphere.
It's the perfect place for friends to have fun and fully experience the summer vibe.
On the other hand, Zaimokuza Beach has a relatively more relaxed atmosphere compared to Yuigahama.
Locals can often be seen strolling, reading, or simply enjoying their time while gazing at the sea.
If you want to enjoy the tourist bustle, Yuigahama is your choice.
If you prefer a leisurely time on a quiet beach, Zaimokuza is for you.
Both have different appeals, and the ability to choose based on your mood is unique to Kamakura.
Today is the fireworks festival. Tamaki-san decided to head to Yuigahama Beach, thinking, "Since I'm here, I want to fully enjoy the summer scenery."
A relaxed afternoon at the beach house
As she sat on the terrace of the beach house, the blue sea stretched out before her.
With a cold drink in hand, listening to the sound of the waves, the heat from her body, weary from walking, gradually subsided.
"This time makes the moments leading up to the fireworks even more special."
Tamaki-san exchanged glances with her friend and smiled gently.
After lunch, they decided to relax under a parasol.
Chatting about trivial things, cooling their feet in the sea. These simple moments gently eased their minds.
Before they knew it, the sun was gradually dipping westward, and the evening air began to settle over the beach.
"It's almost time to shower and get ready for the fireworks."
Tamaki-san stood up and started walking towards the beach house.
Preparing for the night with a shower at the beach house
After freshening up in the beach house shower, her skin, which had been salty from the sea, felt light.
She styled her hair and put on her favorite earrings. She felt a little different from earlier in the day.
Returning to the beach, people waiting for the fireworks had already begun spreading out their sheets.
The sky was starting to be painted with the colors of sunset.
The strong sunlight of the day had softened, and the breeze from the sea gently caressed her cheeks.
Tamaki-san took out the shirt she had bought earlier and gently put it on.
"It's good I had this after all."
That small sense of relief seemed to contribute to the comfort of a summer night in Kamakura.
Linen Crew Neck Three-Quarter Sleeve Cardigan Natural
Watching fireworks on the beach
After getting ready, Tamaki-san said, "Since we're here, let's watch them from the beach today."
Nodding at her friend's words, she descended onto the sand.
The center of the beach is always bustling with many people, but if you walk a little further, the scenery changes slightly.
For Yuigahama Beach, the Sakanoshita area, and for Zaimokuza Beach, the area around Wakae-jima, are hidden gems.
Depending on the crowd situation that year, you can sometimes enjoy the view more leisurely than closer to the center.
Tamaki and her friend also headed to the far end of the beach, spreading out their sheet in a spot a little away from the crowd.
As they spread out their sheet and sat down, the sea breeze gently swept across their cheeks.
On fireworks festival days, many people also watch from the roads along the coast.
However, there's a unique comfort in waiting while sitting on the sand.
78 years of Kamakura's summer tradition
The history of the Kamakura Fireworks Festival began in 1948 (Showa 23), just three years after the end of the war.
It started as an event with the wish to console the war dead and to bring hope and energy to those striving for recovery.
This year marks the 78th festival. Even as times and cityscapes change, the scene of many people gathering at this sea every summer to look up at the same night sky has been passed down.
Families laughing together.
Students shoulder to shoulder with friends.
People reunited after a long time.
Each visits this place with different emotions.
But once the fireworks begin, everyone looks up at the same sky.
Thinking that such moments have continued for 78 times, Tamaki felt even more fondness for this scenery.
Underwater fireworks, a unique sight only at the sea
Eventually, the beach fell silent.
The next moment, with a loud boom that resonated deep in her stomach, the first firework shot into the night sky.
Tamaki was overwhelmed by its power.
Light spreading across the night sky.
Sparkles reflected on the surface of the sea.
"I'm glad we decided to watch from the beach."
Being able to gaze up at the night sky without worrying about her surroundings, and the sight of the sea and the night sky slowly becoming one.
This became one of the memories of the day.
Then, the underwater fireworks, a special highlight of the Kamakura Fireworks Festival, began.
Fireworks launched from boats into the sea, spreading out in a fan shape to create a semicircle on the water's surface.
This fantastical scene, like giant flowers blooming on the sea, is a beloved symbol of the Kamakura Fireworks Festival.
Unlike fireworks that soar high into the night sky, the light that spreads across the water's surface reflects not only in the sky but also on the sea, a beauty that can only be seen in Kamakura with its ocean.
"I'm so glad I came to Kamakura to see this sight!"
Those words naturally floated into her heart, unspoken.
Enjoying the seasons enriches life
In our busy daily lives, we often only think about reaching our destination.
But perhaps sometimes it's good to pause and slowly feel the changing seasons.
Walking in your favorite clothes.
Laughing while feeling the sea breeze.
Enjoying a leisurely time.
And quietly gazing up at the fireworks spreading across the night sky.
Just having such a day makes everyday life a little richer.
This year, why not visit the Kamakura Fireworks Festival not just to see the fireworks, but to spend a summer day in the town of Kamakura?
Starting from the quiet morning streets, an afternoon spent by the sea, the evening sea breeze, and fireworks coloring the sea and night sky.
That day will surely become a cherished memory you'll want to recall next summer.
Recommended Timetable for a Full Day at the Kamakura Fireworks Festival
Around 8:00 AM｜Arrive at Kamakura Station
Enjoy a light breakfast at a cafe and experience the tranquil morning in Kamakura.
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM｜Stroll through town, visit favorite shops
Shop for Kamakura vegetables at Renbai or browse shops in the alleys. It's recommended to wander without a strict schedule.
Around 12:00 PM｜Head to the beach
At Yuigahama Beach, you can enjoy lively beach houses, while at Zaimokuza Beach, you can enjoy a more peaceful time by the sea.
12:30 PM – 3:00 PM｜Relax at the beach
Enjoy lunch at a beach house, relax under a parasol, or occasionally dip your feet in the sea. This is your time to fully experience summer in Kamakura.
Around 3:30 PM｜Shower and get ready at the beach house
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