Fireworks by "Hanabishi” Masters Blossom in the Night Sky

Aoki Akio’s two-layered chrysanthemum firework.

Pellets of gunpowder known as “stars” are laid out to dry.

Aoki Akio version of the yaeshingiku (layered chrysanthemum) firework that his grandfather pioneered.

Four-layered chrysanthenum firework made by Aoki Akio.

Five-layered chrysanthenum firework made by Aoki Akio, who is now aiming for a six-layered one.

Fireworks ready for launch at the Nagano Ebisukō Fireworks Display in Nagano Prefecture.