Fireworks Weekend

On Saturday, August 4, there was a big fireworks display in Kobe. The next day, there was another in Kakogawa. I went to both. I wasn't home for the 4th of July in America, but I got two great shows in one weekend here, so I'm not disappointed at all! There was an amazing amount of people, so I was impressed with the crowd control, especially for the Kakogawa display.

Kobe Fireworks Display 8/4/12

The symbol on the right is the symbol for Kobe city.

Fan-shaped firework~

You only see trashcans in this state at huge, crowded events like firework shows. There was hardly any trash anywhere else though, no litter.

The crowd of people trying to get to the station.

Kakogawa Fireworks Display 8/5/12

When I arrived at Kakogawa Station, they had temporary stands selling tickets. Although the lines were long, they were also surprisingly fast. I bought my ticket home to save me the hassle later.

I wondered where all these policemen (?) came from, since I usually never see any.

An enterprising food stand that decided to set up along the road to the main venue rather than at the venue itself.

The sunset was so amazing that I wondered if the fireworks would be able to compare. I'm going to miss the beautiful views here. TT_TT

The entrance to the seating area.

The first omrice (omelet rice) onigiri I've ever seen. I bought it in a convenience store in Sannomiya to avoid the crowd and high prices of the food stands in Kakogawa.

Once the fireworks started, everyone eagerly started taking pictures.

For such a lot of people, it wasn't very loud.

Going back to the station after the fireworks. I left before they ended, so I think I managed to beat the main crowd. I actually was able to go home on an uncrowded train, which is unusual for a special express on a normal day.

The crowd was constantly moving; despite the number of people there was no wait, so I wasn't able to take a non-blurry picture.

Another overburdened trash can, this time on the train platform.

When I first got to the train platform...

...and then eight minutes later.

I only have about 2 more weeks left in Japan, but, as I'm sure you can tell, I'm gonna make the best of it! Wish me fun~ (and a safe and uneventful trip home)

Oh, and a little bonus video:

 from the Kakogawa fireworks.