For much of Japan, the end of the rainy season signifies that summer has shifted into high gear. And the sweltering months are never quite complete without the bursts of color and sonic booms of fireworks festivals.
But while many people believe fireworks are a quintessential part of the nation's culture, the fireworks industry -- like so many other trades in Japan -- is being taxed by socioeconomic problems such as the protracted economic downturn, the declining birthrate and the surge of cheap imports.
"Although it is generally said that the fireworks industry is unaffected by economic slowdowns, when a recession lasts this long, it does start to take its toll," admitted Hideo Futamata, managing director of the Japan Pyrotechnics Association.