Recently updated on January 22nd, 2020 at 07:34 pm
As summer heats up, vibrant celebrations take place across Japan; fireworks light up the skies, people gather outdoors dressed in yukata, and aromatic street food sizzles on each street corner. Soak up this spirited side to local life on your journey through this culturally rich country with these amazing summer festivals in Japan.
Kyo no Tanabata, Kyoto
Celebrations for Tanabata, also known as the “Star Festival”, are held annually on 7th July in towns across the country. Said to have begun in around the year 700, the festival originates from the Chinese legend of the two lovers Hikoboshi and Orihime – the stars of different constellations – who could only meet on 7th July. During the festival, people write their wishes on strips of coloured paper, which they then hang onto bamboo branches. Kyo no Tanabata is Kyoto’s celebrated offering of this fascinating tradition, and widely considered one of the best summer festivals in japan.
7th July 2016
Gion Matsuri, Kyoto
One of Kyoto’s biggest annual festivals and arguably its most famous, Gion Matsuri is hosted by Yasaka Jinja each July. Throughout the entire month, cultural performances are held citywide, but the highlight for many is Yamaboko Junko, a parade taking place on 17th July in which decorated floats are pulled through the streets to music and festival revelry. Noted for its cultural significance, this event has even been given UNESCO Intangible Heritage status.
Throughout July
Awa Odori, Tokushima
Over a million people from across Japan come to Tokushima each August for the country’s biggest traditional dance festival, Awa Odori. Held during Obon, when people honour the spirits of their ancestors, this lively celebration sees groups of costumed dancers and musicians take to the streets. Also known as the “Dance of the Fools”, Awa Odori is based on the story of a drunken celebration that ensued with the 1586 opening of Tokushima Castle.
From 12th – 15th August 2016
Sumida River Fireworks, Tokyo
Every summer, fireworks displays known as Hanabi are held across Japan, originating from the belief that they ward off evil spirits. At each event, food vendors line the streets and people come out to celebrate the occasion in their summer yukata. One of the oldest Hanabi events countrywide is the Sumida River Fireworks Festival in Tokyo. Here, visitors can find a place along the river to watch the display, and soak up the festival atmosphere in the Asakusa district.
30th July 2016
Harajuku Omotesando Genki Matsuri Super Yosakoi, Tokyo
The two-day Harajuku Omotesando Genki Matsuri Super Yosakoi is Tokyo’s biggest Yosakoi festival, hosted to showcase this modern version of Japan’s traditional Awa Odori dance. Held in Omotesando and Harajuku, including Yoyogi Park, the event has as many as 5,000 dancers taking part.
Late August
Tenjin Matsuri, Osaka
Said to be one of the world’s greatest boat festivals, Tenjin Matsuri features a boat procession involving around 3,000 people, which is made additionally striking as lanterns light each boat. During the festival period, traditional Japanese performing arts, such as bunraku, are shown at venues across Osaka, too.
From 24th – 25th July 2016
Experience these summer festivals in Japan with Trafalgar by joining the Splendours of Japan, Splendours of Japan with Hiroshima, and Samurai Discovery.
Image credits: Cover photo of Yosakoi in Tokyo © Flickr / TakashiM. Yosakoi dancer © Flickr / Kumar Nav. Tanabata © Ricardo / Flickr. Awa Odori © Flickr / Commander, US 7th Fleet. Sumida River Fireworks © Flickr / Tokyo Times. Yosakoi dancers © Flickr / saj1205. Dancers in yukata © Flickr / Marufish.