In addition, we will provide a detailed explanation of the history and types of fireworks so that you can enjoy them even more. If you are thinking of going to a fireworks festival, be sure to check it out!
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History of Fireworks
We've introduced you to the notable fireworks festivals in 2023, but to enjoy fireworks from an intellectual perspective, why not learn about the history, types, and structure of fireworks?
In legal terms, fireworks are called "fireworks" and refer to things that produce light, sound, smoke, etc. by burning and exploding gunpowder. Fireworks can be broadly divided into two types: "fireworks," which are classified as launch fireworks, and "toy fireworks," which are commonly enjoyed at home.
First, let's take a look at the history of fireworks.
The origins of fireworks
The history of fireworks is said to have begun with the invention of black powder, a type of gunpowder used in fireworks. There are various theories about the origin of black powder, but the most widely accepted is that it originated in ancient China as an alchemy (a technique used to create an elixir that would grant immortality).
The elixir contains gold, and it is said that saltpeter, the base of black powder, was discovered by chance during the alchemy of creating gold. Saltpeter was then used for purposes similar to gunpowder, and is still used as a raw material for gunpowder today.
In the 12th century, black powder, a mixture of saltpeter, charcoal, and sulfur, was invented, and firecrackers, which consisted of paper wrapped around black powder and made an explosive sound, appeared and were used for celebrations. These firecrackers are considered to be the origin of fireworks, and it is believed that firecrackers then traveled from China along the Silk Road, through Islamic countries, and then to Europe.
Around the 14th century, decorative fireworks began to be made in European countries such as Italy and England. They were first used in Christian festivals in Florence, Italy, and then spread throughout Europe as cities developed.
Then, in the 1830s, Italians combined metals and gunpowder to create colored fireworks, which are thought to have led to the colorful fireworks of today. It was around this time that fireworks festivals began to be held, with competitions based on design, color, sound, and size.
Introduction to Japan
Black powder was introduced to Japan during the Sengoku period (16th century) along with matchlock guns.
There is a record that fireworks as entertainment in Japan were first seen by Date Masamune at Yonezawa Castle in 1589. Fireworks at that time were similar to modern-day erupting fireworks, with sparks erupting from a bamboo tube. These fireworks are said to have been first displayed by people of the Ming Dynasty in China.
There is also a record that Tokugawa Ieyasu saw fireworks at Sunpu Castle in 1613. The fireworks were similarly performed by people from China, but the artillery unit that was watching brought the technique back to Mikawa (present-day Aichi Prefecture). Since the Mikawa musketeers were the only units permitted to handle gunpowder during the Edo period, fireworks developed in Mikawa, and Mikawa became the birthplace of fireworks.
It is recorded that in 1628, when Tenkai, a Tendai Buddhist monk, visited Senso-ji Temple, he enjoyed fireworks while boating on the Sumida River. Since then, it is known that samurai fireworks were displayed at feudal lords' lower residences downstream of the Sumida River in Edo, and became very popular.
The start of the fireworks festival
Fireworks became popular during the Edo period, and the culture of fireworks spread among the common people. However, fireworks caused frequent fireworks, and the places where fireworks could be set off were limited to boats near the mouth of the Sumida River, but the popularity of fireworks did not stop.
Meanwhile, in 1659, the Ryogoku Bridge over the Sumida River was completed, and the surrounding area became a famous fireworks spot. In the 18th century, the culture of enjoying fireworks while boating became established. The Ryogoku River Opening Fireworks developed into an annual event in Edo in the 1800s, and are considered to be the roots of summer fireworks festivals.
During the Edo period, Japan was hit by several major famines. It is said that the origin of fireworks festivals is that fireworks were launched to console the souls of those who died and to ward off evil spirits.
Also, two fireworks makers who were active around this time were Kagiya Yabei and Tamaya Ichirobei. The shouts of "Tamaya" and "Kagiya" during fireworks displays are derived from their names. That is the history of fireworks and fireworks festivals.
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The contents published are accurate at the time of publication and are subject to change.
