Summer Festivals (Matsuri)
Summer in Japan bursts with energy and tradition. Festivals fill the streets with music, dancing, and colorful yukata. Locals and visitors gather to watch stunning fireworks light up the sky. Food stalls offer summer favorites like yakisoba and shaved ice. Children play games and win prizes at lively booths. Each festival brings people together in joyful celebration. It’s the perfect season to experience Japan’s culture at its most vibrant.
Here are some of Tokyo’s most popular and spectacular summer festivals:
Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival is one of Tokyo’s biggest and most famous fireworks shows. Come early to explore street food stalls and enjoy the pre-show entertainment. Arrive well in advance to claim a good viewing spot. Be prepared for large crowds, as this event attracts hundreds of thousands.
Mitama Matsuri at Yasukuni Shrine – Over 30,000 glowing lanterns light up the shrine grounds in a stunning nighttime display. This large and unique festival takes place only in Tokyo. It’s especially beautiful after sunset. The festival also features one of the city’s best selections of food stalls.
Koenji Awa Odori – This energetic dance festival fills the streets with music, parades, and colorful costumes. Dancers train for months to join the fun. While other Awa Odori events exist in Tokyo, Koenji’s is the oldest and largest. It lasts several days and is a beloved local tradition.
Shaved Ice (kakigori) Hunting
One of the most popular Japanese summer desserts is kakigori, or shaved ice. And what better time to enjoy it than in the heat of summer? Light, fluffy, and refreshing, kakigori is loved by locals of all ages. You’ll find it everywhere—from street stalls to specialty shops. For the best quality and most creative flavors, try Himitsudo, Kurogi, Sakanoue Cafe, Shimura Confectionery, or Mamechawan. Each offers a unique take on this classic treat.
Visit Sunflower Fields
Sunflower fields are one of Japan’s most breathtaking summer sights. These vibrant yellow blooms stretch across wide fields, creating a stunning contrast against the bright blue sky. Just outside Tokyo, places like Kiyose Sunflower Festival. Located on the outskirts of Tokyo, Kiyose hosts the city’s largest sunflower field, featuring approximately 100,000 sunflowers spread over 24,000 square meters. The festival typically runs from early to mid-August. Visitors can enjoy fresh local produce and cut sunflowers for sale. A free shuttle bus operates from Kiyose Station during the event.
Go on a Yakatabune Cruise
In summer, when the weather is clear, a yakatabune cruise is one of the most memorable ways to enjoy Tokyo. These traditional boats sail through Tokyo Bay or along the Sumida River, offering stunning views of the city skyline. Many cruises include all-you-can-eat tempura, drinks, and even live performances. Online, you’ll find a wide variety of options to suit different tastes, group sizes, and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening, a lively group party, or a relaxing sightseeing trip, there’s a yakatabune experience perfect for you. Summer evenings, with their warm breeze and illuminated cityscape, make it the ideal time to set sail.
