Summer Festivals

Discover the Magic of Japanese Summer Festivals

Japan hosts festivals throughout the year, yet July to September marks the pinnacle of celebratory excitement. Our events section merely scratches the surface of summer festivals! While the featured ones are prominent and widely publicized, every corner, nook, and cranny of the city, even the smaller neighbourhoods, pulsates with their unique celebrations.

Japanese summers bring with them vibrant festivals that are not only a celebration of the season but also a time to honor ancestors. Known as the Obon period, which spans July and August, it is believed that during this time, the spirits of ancestors return to visit the earthly realm. Traditional festivals held in this period are a heartfelt tribute to these spirits.

Attending a summer festival in Japan unveils a world focused on the supernatural. Deity-themed floats traverse the streets, portable shrines make appearances in key festival spots, and energetic traditional dances take center stage. Every aspect of these festivals is meticulously crafted to express reverence for the ancestors.

Immerse yourself in the lively ambiance and embrace the unique experience by participating in the dances, joining the parades, and chanting along with the crowd. These festivals also provide an excellent opportunity to connect with the local community, making it a memorable cultural experience.

Bon odori with firework in the background

What to wear at a Japanese summer festival

There isn't a specific dress code for festivals, so casual clothes are perfectly acceptable. However, to immerse yourself in the local tradition, consider wearing a yukata—a summer kimono worn by men, women, and children. Made of lighter and thinner cotton material compared to regular kimonos, yukatas are not only stylish but can also be more breathable and comfortable in the summer heat.

If you plan to purchase a yukata, you'll find them readily available in department stores, especially in special sections dedicated to summer attire. Uniqlo offers affordable yukata sets with vibrant designs, typically priced under ¥8,000. These sets usually include the yukata, obi (belt/sash), and koshi-himo (thinner sashes for tying below the chest and at the waist). Please note that, at present, Uniqlo's yukata collection is designed for women and children.

Complete your festival attire with geta (traditional Japanese sandals), a kinchaku drawstring bag, and a fan—whether a sensu (folding fan) or uchiwa (non-foldable type). For an extra touch, ladies (and gents) can add a flower accessory to their hair.

If you're unsure about putting on a yukata by yourself, numerous instructional videos on YouTube can guide you through the process. In case you find tying the obi challenging, many hair salons offer yukata dressing services during the summer. Alternatively, if you don't plan to purchase one, renting a yukata for the day is also a convenient option.

Girls in yukata ordering food at summer festival

Bon Odori and Fireworks

Bon Odori and fireworks are quintessential summer activities, making appearances at many (though not all) festivals. Fireworks festivals spare no effort in delivering an extravagant pyrotechnic display, often choreographed to music, creating a captivating spectacle. Be prepared for large crowds, particularly at major events like the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival; consult our guide to Tokyo’s fireworks festivals for tips on securing a prime viewing location.

When it comes to Bon Odori, embrace the opportunity to join in! Even if you feel a bit awkward on the dance floor, the steps are generally straightforward. Simply join the circle of dancers around the yagura (bandstand) and follow their lead. Making a small misstep won’t be a major issue, and older participants will likely appreciate your enthusiasm, especially as a foreigner participating in the dance.

Festival Food stalls

Beyond Bon Odori and fireworks, Japanese summer festivals are synonymous with food and amusement stalls. While our comprehensive guide covers typical festival fare and highlights the best seasonal summer treats, there's one must-try item at these festivals: kakigori, a refreshing shaved ice dessert drizzled with syrup. Particularly on a warm and humid day, indulging in kakigori is a delightful way to beat the heat.