47. Mains festivals in summer in Kansai / Tokyo

Mains festivals in summer in Kansai / Tokyo

Summer matsuri (festivals, 祭り) are some of the most vibrant events in Japan, featuring parades, traditional dances, fireworks, and festive food stalls. Here are some must-visit festivals in Kansai and Tokyo.

📍 Kansai Region

🌸 Gion Matsuri (Kyoto) – Throughout July, one of Japan’s most famous festivals, with massive decorative floats (yamaboko) parading through the streets.
🎆 Tenjin Matsuri (Osaka) – July 24-25, featuring river processions, traditional performances, and fireworks.
🌀 Awa Odori (Tokushima) – August 12-15, a lively festival known for its famous traditional dance.
🔥 Daimonji Gozan Okuribi (Kyoto) – Mid-August, giant kanji characters are set ablaze on Kyoto’s surrounding mountains.
🕯️ Nara Tokae (Nara) – Late July to early August, thousands of lanterns illuminate Nara Park and its temples.
🎐 Osaka Tenmangu Taisai (Osaka) – Around July 24-25, a traditional celebration at Tenmangu Shrine.
🎇 Nanigawa Fireworks Festival (Osaka) – Early August, a spectacular fireworks display.

📍 Tokyo and Surrounding Areas

🎇 Sumida River Fireworks Festival – Late July or early August, Tokyo’s biggest fireworks show with over 20,000 fireworks lighting up the sky.
💃 Koenji Awa Odori – Late August, a Tokyo version of the famous Awa Odori dance festival with a lively atmosphere.
🎭 Asakusa Samba Carnival – Late August, a colorful festival inspired by Brazil’s Rio Carnival.
🌀 Shibuya Bon Odori – Mid-August, traditional Bon Odori dance held in the heart of Shibuya.
🎐 Ueno Summer Festival – Mid-August, featuring traditional dances, street performances, and market stalls.
🎆 Edogawa Fireworks Festival – Late July, one of Tokyo’s most spectacular fireworks displays.