Tezutsu-hanabi

Tezutsu-hanabi (手筒花火) is a type of traditional Japanese pyrotechnic device and fireworks projector similar to a flamethrower. It was used in historical times for both celebrations and as a way to create bright lights and sounds during special events. This device shows the creativity and skill of people in making exciting displays with fire and light. The way it works involves using special materials to create bright flashes and loud noises, making it a unique part of Japanese culture.

History

The Mikawa no kuni korō den tells us that fireworks were first used in Mikawa in 1558. During the Sengoku period, bright signal lights and rockets were used in battles. In 1613, tezutsu-hanabi were shown to Tokugawa Ieyasu at Edo Castle before the Siege of Osaka. It is thought that soldiers from the Tokugawa clan brought back ideas about fireworks when they came back to Mikawa Province in the early 1600s.

Tezutsu-hanabi are used in many shrine festivals, like at Toyokawa’s Utari Shrine and Gifu’s Tejikarao Shrine. People have been using them there since at least the 1760s.

Characteristics of the tezutsu-hanabi projector

Tezutsu-hanabi projectors are made by local people who have special permission. They are about 80 cm long and made from a type of bamboo called mōsō, tied with strong rope. Inside, they contain a mix of slow-burning gunpowder and iron powder. When the fuse is lit, it shoots out a jet of fire that can get very hot. After the show, the projector is flipped, and the bottom bursts in a small extra explosion called a hane. In some places, like Shizuoka, this burst might be smaller or not happen at all.