Lake Biwa Fireworks Event Cancelled Amid Scam Suspicions
SingTao · 1 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
A fireworks event billed as the “Lake Biwa Three Cities Simultaneous Fireworks Festival” was scheduled for August 22 around Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, but organisers abruptly announced its cancellation on August 9 . The event had promoted reserved seating throughout the venue, more than 10,000 fireworks, a night market, shuttle buses and dedicated parking, with tickets priced at roughly ¥6,000 to ¥18,000 . Residents and stall operators had already raised doubts after failing to reach organisers, and the governments of Nagahama, Hikone and Takashima said on August 6 that they had no connection to the event . Authorities also said the organiser had not completed legally required procedures, including permits needed under Japan’s River Act for launching fireworks on Lake Biwa .
Key Points
- The event claimed to be jointly hosted by Nagahama, Hikone and Takashima, with fireworks launched simultaneously from three directions over Lake Biwa .
- Organisers marketed fully reserved seating, over 10,000 fireworks, a night market, shuttle buses and dedicated parking as major selling points .
- Ticket prices listed on the official website were about ¥6,000 to ¥18,000, or roughly HK$296 to HK$890 .
- Buyers were told exact venue locations would only be emailed one week before the event, while some noticed odd map graphics and unnatural Japanese wording online .
- The organiser said on August 5 that ticket sales were paused during final coordination, but on August 9 announced cancellation with no postponement or future plan .
Why It Matters
For Hong Kong travellers, the case is a reminder that even polished event websites and social media promotions may not mean an event has official backing . It also shows the practical risk of buying tickets, transport and vendor supplies before checking whether organisers have permits, local government support and working contact details .