10,000 Fireworks, One Beach: Your 2025 Guide to the Ocean Expo Fireworks Festival in Okinawa
If you’re heading to Okinawa this summer, the Ocean Expo Churaumi Fireworks Festival 2025 is an event you absolutely can’t miss. Taking place at the stunning Emerald Beach in Motobu Town, this spectacular night of color, music, and celebration draws tens of thousands of visitors each year—and for good reason. It’s Okinawa’s biggest fireworks display, set against the backdrop of turquoise seas and golden sands.
In this travel guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about attending the Ocean Expo Fireworks Festival: what to expect, how to get there, where to stay, and how to secure the best seats in the house. We’ll also introduce two popular guided tour options available on VELTRA to help you enjoy a stress-free and unforgettable experience.
What is the Ocean Expo Churaumi Fireworks Festival?
The Ocean Expo Churaumi Fireworks Festival, also known as the Ocean Hakumira Sea Fireworks Festival, is Okinawa’s largest summer fireworks show. Held annually at Emerald Beach inside Ocean Expo Park, the event features a jaw-dropping display of approximately 10,000 fireworks that light up the night sky in harmony with music. The reflection on the ocean creates a magical effect you won’t soon forget.
2025 Festival Details:
- Date: Saturday, July 5, 2025
- Time: 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Gates open at 11:00 AM)
- Location: Emerald Beach, Ocean Expo Park, Motobu Town, Okinawa
- Admission: Paid seats available; limited free viewing areas
Why You Should Go
This festival is more than just a fireworks show; it’s an immersive summer celebration that showcases the spirit and charm of Okinawa. Surrounded by the beauty of the ocean and nearby attractions like the Churaumi Aquarium and Tropical Dream Center, it’s a perfect capstone to a day of sightseeing.
Visitors are treated to food stalls, live music, beach activities, and a joyful atmosphere shared by locals and travelers alike. Whether you’re a photographer, a festival lover, or just someone who appreciates breathtaking natural beauty, this event will not disappoint.
Ticket Options: Free vs. Paid Viewing
While there are free areas available on a first-come, first-served basis, they tend to get crowded quickly and may not offer the best views. For a more comfortable and secure experience, consider purchasing a paid seat.
Types of Paid Seats:
- General Seating: ¥3,000 per person (includes a beach chair)
- Box Seats (Medium): ¥30,500 (2m x 2m, up to 6 people, no chairs)
- Box Seats (Large): ¥47,000 (3m x 3m, up to 10 people, no chairs)
- Parking Ticket: ¥3,400 (only valid with fireworks seat ticket)
All seating options include access to designated areas for optimal viewing.
VELTRA Tour Options
1. Ocean Expo Park Fireworks Festival Reserved Tickets
This product provides a reserved seat or seating space at the festival venue. It’s ideal for those renting a car or already staying nearby and only need the admission ticket.
Highlights:
- Seating in front of Emerald Beach
- Fireworks view with minimal crowding
- Option to add a parking ticket
- Does NOT include transportation
Best For: Independent travelers with their own car or accommodation in Motobu.
2. Ocean Expo Park Fireworks Day Trip with Round-Trip Bus and VIP Seating
his package includes a reserved fireworks seat and convenient round-trip bus transportation from Naha Area or Central Okinawa. You can also opt to include a bento lunchbox. It’s a hassle-free way to attend the festival without worrying about driving or navigating public transport.
Highlights:
- Reserved chair seating for the fireworks
- Round-trip bus service from multiple pick-up points
- Optional bento lunchbox included with select plans
- No sightseeing stops—direct transportation to and from the event
Tour Comparison: Which One is Right for You?
| Feature | Reserved Ticket Only | Bus + Ticket Combo |
|---|---|---|
| Reserved Seat | ✔ | ✔ |
| Transportation Included | ✘ | ✔ |
| Bento Option | ✘ | ✔ |
| Sightseeing Stops | ✘ | ✘ |
| Best For | Self-drivers / Locals | Visitors in Naha / Central Okinawa |
If you’re staying near the venue or have a rental car, go with the Reserved Ticket. If you’re based in Naha or want easy round-trip access, choose the Bus + Ticket Combo.
How to Get There
Emerald Beach at Ocean Expo Park is located in Motobu Town, in northern Okinawa. While the venue is stunning, getting there requires planning—especially on the day of the fireworks, when roads can be congested and parking fills up fast.
By Car
- From Naha Airport: Approx. 2 hours via the Okinawa Expressway (Route 58 → Route 449)
- Parking: Paid parking is available only with advance reservation when booking a seat ticket.
- Important Tip: Expect road closures and traffic delays on July 5. Arrive by 2:00 PM to avoid congestion.
- Navigation Tip: Set your GPS to Ocean Expo Park (海洋博公園) or directly to Emerald Beach (エメラルドビーチ).
Parking Tickets: Only valid with a seat reservation. Add-on available via the VELTRA Reserved Ticket Plan.
By Local Bus
- From Naha Bus Terminal: Take Express Bus #117 to Nago Bus Terminal (~2 hrs), then transfer to Route #70 or #76 toward Motobu.
- From Nago Bus Terminal: Board a local bus toward Ocean Expo Park (Kinen Koen-mae).
- Total Time: Approx. 3–3.5 hours
- Cost: Around ¥2,000–¥3,000 one-way
- Note: Final return buses are often crowded and may stop early due to traffic. Plan your return in advance.
Hassle-Free Option: VELTRA Bus + Ticket Plan
Want a worry-free way to enjoy the festival? Book the Round-Trip Bus Plan, which includes:
- Reserved seat at the fireworks event
- Round-trip bus service from Naha City or Central Okinawa
- Optional bento lunchbox
- No transfers or navigation needed
Best For: Tourists staying in the Naha or Chatan areas who prefer stress-free travel.
Where to Stay Nearby
Planning to stay overnight? Here are some hotel options near Ocean Expo Park:
- Orion Motobu Resort & Spa – High-end beachfront property with ocean views
- Ala Mahaina Condo Hotel – Great for families and long stays
- Wisteria Condominium Resort – Comfortable apartment-style stays
Book early, as hotels near the event fill up fast!
Tips for a Great Experience
- Arrive Early: Even with reserved seats, arriving early lets you explore food stalls and nearby attractions.
- Bring Cash: Most vendors at the festival don’t accept credit cards.
- Check the Weather: The event is weather-dependent. Rain may lead to cancellations.
- Travel Light: Avoid large bags and bring only essentials. Prohibited items include glass bottles, drones, and large umbrellas.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking around the park and beach area.
Make the Most of Your Summer in Okinawa
The Ocean Expo Churaumi Fireworks Festival is a full-on celebration of Okinawan culture, nature, and summer spirit. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with family, this unforgettable evening is sure to be a highlight of your Japan trip.
And with VELTRA’s curated fireworks tours, you don’t have to worry about the details. Just book your preferred experience, show up, and enjoy the magic.
Don’t wait—reserve your seats today and get ready for one of Japan’s most spectacular summer events!
