When it comes to Summer in Japan, many people think of sparklers as a staple. Sparklers are a very delicate type of Japanese hand-held fireworks. After lighting the fire, you can see the sparkler undergo changes in roughly four stages, creating a distinctive Japanese atmosphere.
…However, enjoying the different stages to the very end without letting the fire go out is an extremely difficult task, even for Japanese people. It is said to be comperable a five-star difficulty video game. Because of this, there is even the superstition that says “if the ball of fire remains without falling until the end, your wish will come true, or your love will be fulfilled”.
In the summer, Japanese often often gather together with friends, lovers, and family members to see who can hold the sparkler longest without letting the ball of fire drop. Try firmly setting your elbows, creating a steady posture, or seek out a place where there is no wind- Everyone has their own way of trying to protect the sparkler, but the delicacy of sparklers is beyond our imagination.
When it comes summer time, sparklers become a familiar sight you can easily pick up anywhere. You can even pick them up at the convenience store. Trying to protect the ball of fire on your sparkler may be an impossible game to succeed in, but it is well worth the challenge.