Summer in Manazuru, Kanagawa, pulses with anticipation as the annual Manazuru Fireworks Festival lights up the evening sky. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sagami Bay, this event draws both locals and adventurers eager to witness bursts of color dancing above the water. The festival is accessible through a manageable hike that threads through pine-scented coastal trails, offering glimpses of the sea daring you onward before arriving at the festival's vibrant heart.

The hike spans roughly 6 km round trip from Manazuru Station, with an elevation gain of 150 meters. The terrain varies between smooth paved paths and forested tracks where roots and rocks test your footing—a practical reminder to wear sturdy shoes. The trail embraces you with salty breezes that battle against the thicker smells of cedar and pine, each breath grounding you in the moment.

Planning your visit requires timing: the fireworks start at dusk but arrive early enough to claim a viewing spot and enjoy local food stalls. Hydration and insect repellent are essentials since summer evenings can be warm and mosquitoes persistent. For seasoned hikers, the challenge lies in balancing the leisurely pace needed to absorb the landscape with the excitement building by the shore.

As the sun dips behind Mt. Fuji in the distance, the festival ignites. Fiery explosions bloom overhead, their reflections flickering off the waves. The coastal wind carries the rhythm of the festival forward, alive and insistent. The Manazuru Fireworks Festival isn’t just a show; it’s a living dialogue with nature’s fierce and beautiful summer energy. For adventurers, it offers a perfect blend of accessible trekking and celebration—and a chance to witness Kanagawa’s summer spirit in full flare.