Spectacular Japanese Fireworks
Photographer Hidenobu Suzuki captured ‘tezutsu hanabi’, cascades of flames that men hold at arm's length until the point of exhaustion.

© Hidenobu Suzuki
These Japanese fireworks, named tezutsu hanabi, are one of the country’s oldest traditions. It all began in the city of Toyohashi in Aichi Prefecture, central Japan, 400 years ago. These fireworks, which served as a means of communication in wartime, their flames reaching up to 20 metres in height, are made by hand from bamboo. The lit cylinders are held by men for the duration of the ceremony. This perilous spectacle was captured by Japanese photographer Hidenobu Suzuki. His photographs mainly show men standing surrounded by flames, under a shower of sparks.
Hidenobu Suzuki’s work can be found on his website.

© Hidenobu Suzuki

© Hidenobu Suzuki

© Hidenobu Suzuki

© Hidenobu Suzuki
TRENDING
-
The Tattoos that Marked the Criminals of the Edo Period
Traditional tattoos were strong signifiers; murderers had head tattoos, while theft might result in an arm tattoo.
-
Paris, Tokyo: Robert Compagnon
With his co-chef and talented wife, Jessica Yang, Robert Compagnon opened one of the top new restaurants in Paris: Le Rigmarole.
3:31 -
The Story of Sada Yacco, the Geisha who Bewitched Europe
Described by Dazed magazine as the first beauty influencer, she has been restored to her former glory since 2019.
-
Ito Jakuchu's Naturalist Paintings
From 15 September until 14 October 2018, the Petit Palais showcased the artist's iconic ‘Images of the Colourful Realm of Living Beings’.
-
Chiharu Shiota, Red Threads of the Soul
Last year, more than 660,000 people visited the retrospective 'Chiharu Shiota: The Soul Trembles' exhibit at the Mori Art Museum.



