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Tokyo Events
Sumida River Fireworks Festival
Sumida River, Tokyo
July 26, 2025
https://www.wokewaves.com/posts/tokyo-2025-festivals-guide
The Sumida River Fireworks Festival is one of Tokyo's most anticipated summer events, drawing over a million spectators each year. This festival dates back to the 18th century and features a breathtaking display of fireworks that light up the night sky along the Sumida River. The event not only showcases stunning pyrotechnics but also creates a festive atmosphere with food stalls offering traditional snacks like yakitori and kakigori (shaved ice). Visitors can enjoy the vibrant colors reflecting off the river while experiencing the lively ambiance created by local performers and festival-goers dressed in yukata. This event is perfect for families and friends looking to celebrate summer in a spectacular fashion.
Marunouchi Summer Festival
Marunouchi area, near Tokyo Station
July 26-27, 2025
https://tokyocheapo.com/events/marunouchi-summer-festival/
The Marunouchi Summer Festival is a delightful celebration held right in front of Tokyo Station. This festival features traditional Bon Odori dance performances, where participants can join in the festivities. A unique aspect of this event is Uchimizu, where water is splashed onto sidewalks to cool down the area, creating a refreshing experience for attendees. Alongside these activities, food stalls offer popular summer treats like kakigori. The festival also includes a free yukata dressing service for those who wish to immerse themselves fully in the cultural experience. This event is an excellent opportunity to enjoy traditional Japanese summer festivities in a modern urban setting.
Tokyo Game Show
Makuhari Messe, Chiba (near Tokyo)
July 2025 (exact dates TBA)
https://expo.nikkeibp.co.jp/tgs/2024/en/
The Tokyo Game Show is one of the largest gaming events in the world, showcasing the latest in video games, technology, and interactive entertainment. While traditionally held in September, special events and previews often take place in July leading up to the main show. Attendees can experience hands-on gameplay with upcoming titles, attend panels featuring industry leaders, and enjoy cosplay events that celebrate gaming culture. The show attracts gamers from around the globe, making it a vibrant hub for enthusiasts to connect and share their passion for gaming. This event is ideal for anyone interested in the future of interactive entertainment.
Kyoto Events
Gion Matsuri
Yasaka Shrine and surrounding areas
uly 1 - 31, 2025 (Main parades on July 17 & 24)
https://kyototravel.info/gionmatsuri
The Gion Matsuri is one of Japan's most famous festivals, celebrated throughout July in Kyoto. It features numerous events culminating in two grand parades known as Yamaboko Junko on July 17 and 24. These parades showcase elaborately decorated floats that are pulled through the streets by teams of participants dressed in traditional attire. The festival originated over a thousand years ago as an effort to appease deities during an epidemic and has evolved into a month-long celebration filled with street food stalls, music performances, and cultural displays. Visitors can immerse themselves in Kyoto's rich history while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere created by locals and tourists alike.
Mitarashi-sai
Shimogamo Shrine
July 19 - 28, 2025
https://www.discoverkyoto.com/event-calendar/july/
The Mitarashi-sai is a unique festival held at Shimogamo Shrine that focuses on purification rituals involving water. Participants wade through the Mitarashi pond to cleanse themselves spiritually while praying for health and prosperity. The festival includes various activities such as traditional music performances and food stalls offering local delicacies. It reflects Japan's deep connection to nature and water as sources of life and purification. This event provides visitors with an opportunity to engage in spiritual practices while experiencing the serene beauty of one of Kyoto's oldest shrines.
Fukuoka Tōgenkyō Festival
Ohori Park, 1-2 Ohorikoen, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka
July 7 - July 9, 2025
https://en.japantravel.com/events/fukuoka
The Fukuoka Tōgenkyō Festival is a celebration of traditional Japanese culture and art, held annually in early July at Ohori Park. The festival’s name, meaning "Paradise," reflects its aim to create an enchanting atmosphere filled with beauty and joy. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including traditional dance performances, music, and art exhibitions by local artists. The festival features workshops where participants can learn traditional crafts such as calligraphy, origami, and kimono wearing. Food stalls serve delicious local specialties, offering a chance to indulge in the flavors of Fukuoka. A highlight of the festival is the lantern ceremony, where paper lanterns are released into the park’s pond, creating a stunning visual display that symbolizes hope and peace. The Tōgenkyō Festival serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural traditions while also providing a space for community engagement and celebration. It is a perfect event for families, tourists, and anyone interested in experiencing the rich cultural heritage of Fukuoka.
Fukuoka Events
Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival
Hakata area, Fukuoka City, centered around Kushida Shrine.
uly 1 to July 15, 2025 (main race on July 15 at 4:59 AM)
https://en.japantravel.com/fukuoka/hakata-gion-yamakasa/5654
The Hakata Gion Yamakasa is one of Fukuoka’s most iconic festivals, celebrated annually in July. This vibrant event features elaborately decorated floats, known as yamakasa, that are raced through the streets of Hakata. The festival is deeply rooted in tradition, originating in the 13th century as a way to pray for a good harvest and to ward off disease. Each neighborhood competes to create the most beautiful float, adorned with intricate designs and vibrant colors. The highlight of the festival occurs during the morning of July 15, when teams carry their floats through the streets in a thrilling competition. Spectators are treated to lively chants and traditional music that fill the air with excitement. The festival also includes various cultural activities, food stalls, and performances, making it a full celebration of community spirit. This event not only showcases the craftsmanship and dedication of local teams but also brings together residents and visitors in a celebration of heritage and camaraderie.
Nogata Summer Festival
Nogata City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan.
July 27, 2025
(with potential postponement to August 2 or August 8, 2025, in case of inclement weather)
https://en.japantravel.com/fukuoka/nogata-summer-festival/70053
The Nogata Summer Festival is a vibrant celebration that showcases the rich cultural heritage and community spirit of Nogata City. Held annually in late July, this festival features a variety of exciting activities, including traditional dance performances, music, and food stalls offering local delicacies. One of the highlights is the mesmerizing lantern parade, where colorful lanterns illuminate the streets, creating a magical atmosphere. Attendees can participate in traditional games and workshops, providing a chance to experience local customs firsthand. The festival culminates in a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the night sky, drawing crowds from across the region. With its lively ambiance and community-focused activities, the Nogata Summer Festival is a perfect opportunity for families and visitors to enjoy the warmth of summer while immersing themselves in the vibrant culture of Fukuoka. It promises unforgettable memories for all who attend.
Fukuoka Tōgenkyō Festival
Ohori Park, 1-2 Ohorikoen, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka
July 7 - July 9, 2025
https://en.japantravel.com/events/fukuoka
The Fukuoka Tōgenkyō Festival is a celebration of traditional Japanese culture and art, held annually in early July at Ohori Park. The festival’s name, meaning "Paradise," reflects its aim to create an enchanting atmosphere filled with beauty and joy. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including traditional dance performances, music, and art exhibitions by local artists. The festival features workshops where participants can learn traditional crafts such as calligraphy, origami, and kimono wearing. Food stalls serve delicious local specialties, offering a chance to indulge in the flavors of Fukuoka. A highlight of the festival is the lantern ceremony, where paper lanterns are released into the park’s pond, creating a stunning visual display that symbolizes hope and peace. The Tōgenkyō Festival serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural traditions while also providing a space for community engagement and celebration. It is a perfect event for families, tourists, and anyone interested in experiencing the rich cultural heritage of Fukuoka.
Kyushu Events
Ryujin Festival (Hiyo-hiyo Matsuri)
Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture.
Mid-July (exact date to be confirmed)
https://www.discover-nagasaki.com/en/events_multilingual/61900
The Ryujin Festival, also known as Hiyo-hiyo Matsuri, is a vibrant and culturally rich celebration held annually at Hiyoshi Shrine in Fukuoka Prefecture. This traditional festival, which spans three days in mid-July, honors the dragon deity believed to protect the region and its people. The festival features colorful parades, lively music, and captivating performances, drawing visitors from across the country. One of the main attractions is the procession of beautifully adorned floats, showcasing intricate designs and vibrant decorations. Participants, dressed in traditional attire, carry these floats through the streets, creating a lively atmosphere filled with laughter and excitement. The festival also includes traditional dances, taiko drum performances, and local food stalls offering delicious regional specialties. As night falls, the festival culminates in a stunning fireworks display over the shrine, illuminating the sky and adding to the festive spirit. The Ryujin Festival is a celebration of community, culture, and tradition, making it an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
Nagasaki Peiron Championship
Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture
July 27-28, 2025
https://www.discover-nagasaki.com/en/events_multilingual/51801
The Nagasaki Peiron Championship is an exhilarating annual event that celebrates the region's rich maritime culture through traditional boat racing. Held in mid-July, this championship features long, narrow wooden boats, known as peiron, crewed by local teams competing for glory on the scenic waters of Nagasaki Bay. Spectators are treated to the sight of teams paddling in unison, propelled by the rhythmic chants of their supporters. The atmosphere is electric as boats race side by side, showcasing both skill and teamwork. Vibrantly decorated boats add to the festive ambiance, making the event visually stunning. Beyond the races, the championship offers a variety of cultural experiences. Local food vendors provide delicious regional specialties, allowing attendees to indulge in Nagasaki's culinary delights. Traditional music and dance performances enrich the celebration, creating a lively environment for families and friends. The Nagasaki Peiron Championship is not only a competition but also a gathering that fosters community spirit and celebrates local traditions, making it a must-see event for visitors and locals alike.
