10 Summer Festivals must visit on your trip to Japan

Festival period: August 2nd to 7th
At the Aomori Nebuta Festival, giant lanterns with warrior paintings called “Nebuta” shine in the night sky and parade through the town. The power and beauty of the festival is worth seeing. The design of the lanterns changes every year, so no matter how many times you visit, you’ll be surprised by something new.

Festival period: July 1st to 31st
The Gion Festival, held in Kyoto City, is one of the oldest festivals in Japan. The Yamaboko Junko on July 17th and 24th is particularly not to be missed. The gorgeous Yamaboko floats decorate the streets of Kyoto, and you will be overwhelmed by their beauty and grandeur. They are also lit up at night, creating a fantastic atmosphere.

Festival period: July 24th and 25th
Tenjin Matsuri is one of the three major festivals in Japan. The climax is a boat procession of over 100 boats going up and down the Okawa River, followed by a fireworks display that lights up the night sky. It’s a great opportunity to experience Osaka’s vibrant summer. During the festival, the city of Osaka is full of energy and welcomes visitors.

Festival period: August 6th to 8th
The Sendai Tanabata Festival is the largest Tanabata festival in Japan. The gorgeous Tanabata decorations displayed throughout the city are overwhelming, and you will be fascinated by their splendor and beauty. The illuminations at night are particularly fantastic, and attract visitors. You can also enjoy the romantic atmosphere based on the Tanabata legend.

Festival period: August 12th to 15th
Awa Odori Festival is one of the most famous dance festivals in Japan. The sight of thousands of dancers dancing energetically through the streets is a spectacular sight. Tourists are free to join in the dancing and experience the excitement of the festival. As the festival’s motto: “A fool who dances and a fool who watches”, this is a festival that everyone can enjoy.

Festival period: The last Saturday of July
The Sumida River Fireworks Festival is a large-scale fireworks festival with a tradition that dates back to the Edo period. Approximately 20,000 fireworks are launched from both sides of the Sumida River, beautifully lighting up the summer night sky. Viewing from the Asakusa area is especially recommended. You can enjoy the summer night while enjoying the food stalls along the river.

Festival period: July 1st to 15thHakata
Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival is a festival with over 700 years of history. The climax of the festival, the Oiyama, takes place in the early morning of July 15th, and the sight of the giant Yamakasa racing through the city is a spectacular sight. The entire city of Hakata is filled with the festival spirit, warmly welcoming all visitors.

Festival period: Mid-July to early September
Gujo Odori Festival is one of the oldest dance festivals in Japan. During the “Tetsuya Odori” period, the dancing continues all night long, and tourists are free to join in. This festival allows you to deeply experience the local culture, and you can have a special experience where the dancers and the audience become one.

Festival period: August 9th to 12th
The Yosakoi Festival began in Kochi City in 1954. Approximately 200 teams and 18,000 dancers from all over Japan participate. Each team wears a gorgeous costume and holds a Naruko (a Japanese traditional musical instrument), and competes with their own original music and choreography. The festival’s free and creative atmosphere is what makes it an exciting event for both participants and spectators.

Festival period: Late August
Okinawa Zento Eisa Festival began in Koza City in 1956 and is now a seasonal feature of the Okinawa summer. Selected youth groups from all over the main island and guests from all over the country gather to perform powerful dances to the rhythm of the Sanshin and Taiko drums. The energy and enthusiasm created by the harmony of music and dance captivates the audience, making this an event where you can fully enjoy Okinawan culture.