"Hibana," the debut novel by Naoki Matayoshi of the comedy duo "Peace," has been garnering attention after winning the 153rd Akutagawa Prize. The Atami Seaside Fireworks Festival, featured in the work, will begin on July 26th. "Hibana" explores the fundamental nature of human existence as two comedians, Kamiya, a genius of eccentricity yet imbued with humanity, and Tokunaga, a junior comedian who regards him as his "mentor." One scene in the work depicts the Atami Seaside Fireworks Festival, known for its powerful sound, unique to the area's geography surrounded by mountains and sea. Held year-round, this summer's festivals are held on July 26th, 30th, August 5th, 7th, 17th, 23rd, and 28th. The autumn festival will then be held on September 26th and October 12th, and the winter festival will be held on December 6th, 13th, and 23rd. An extra-large 2-shaku fireworks display is also scheduled for August 28th.

Incidentally, Atami, where the event will be held, is also the place where Dazai Osamu, of whom Matayoshi Naoki is a fan, wrote the first two parts of No Longer Human. The main building of Kiunkaku, where Dazai stayed while writing, still stands, so it might be a good idea to visit before watching the fireworks.