Understanding seasonal rhythms
Whether you’re chasing cherry blossoms or neon-lit hanabi shows, our Tokyo festival calendar helps you keep track of the city’s dynamic matsuri (festivals) all year long. Tokyo’s seasonal events range from centuries-old Shinto processions to glittering modern dance parties. You’ll find something lively every month, and this guide breaks it all down by season.
In Japan, each season has its own flavour. Spring is all about blossoms and shrine celebrations. Summer brings massive fireworks and dance festivals. The rainy season offers flower shows and cozy indoor markets. Autumn dazzles with foliage illuminations, and winter lights up under Christmas trees and New Year rituals.
Here’s a quick at-a-glance snapshot:
| Season | Months | Key events |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mar – May | Cherry blossom hanami, Sanja Matsuri, Kanda Matsuri |
| Summer | Jun – Aug | Sumida River fireworks, Kōenji Awa Odori, ULTRA JAPAN ([Japan Travel]) |
| Rainy season | Jun – Jul | Hydrangea (Ajisai) festivals, Iris (Shobu) fair, Oedo Antique Market ([Japan Travel]) |
| Autumn | Sep – Nov | Autumn Ginza, Moon viewing (Otsukimi), Rikugien evening lights |
| Winter | Dec – Feb | Marunouchi Illumination, Christmas markets, Hatsumode New Year visits |
Explore spring celebrations
Spring in Tokyo bursts to life with a riot of pink and white blossoms. You’ve probably heard of hanami (flower viewing) in Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen. Thousands spread picnic blankets under sakura trees as petals drift down around them.
Cherry blossom hanami
- Peak bloom in Tokyo usually runs late March to early April
- Top spots include Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Sumida Park (tokyo hanami cherry blossom spots)
- Evening illuminations often extend viewing through the night
Shrine processions
Spring also means mega-matsuri at major shrines. The Sanja Festival at Asakusa Shrine draws over 2 million visitors for lively mikoshi (portable shrine) parades. Kanda Matsuri in May brings elaborately decorated floats every other year, with a smaller even-year event too (Wikipedia).
Seasonal highlights
- Children’s Day (Kodomo no Hi) on May 5, when carp streamers flutter overhead
- Tanabata star festival decorations pop up in July (Japanese Society)
- Local neighbourhood fairs with street food and games
Curious about more spring activities beyond the festivals? Check out tokyo spring activities for cherry-blossom hikes, temple tours, and seasonal treats.
Experience summer festivals
Tokyo summers can get hot and humid, but the festival energy keeps you cool under the fireworks glare. Ready to dive into summer matsuri?
Sumida River fireworks
The Sumida River Fireworks Festival lights up the sky on the last Saturday of July, launching over 20,000 fireworks shells along the riverbanks (Wikipedia). Pack a picnic, stake out a spot early, and enjoy the spectacular hanabi (fireworks) display.
Kōenji Awa Odori
On the last weekend of August, Tokyo’s Kōenji district transforms into a dance parade. Teams in colourful yukata (summer kimono) move to upbeat shamisen and taiko rhythms. Millions line the streets to watch or even join in.
Modern beats
If electronic music is your thing, ULTRA JAPAN at Odaiba features top DJs under Tokyo’s skyline. It’s the city’s biggest EDM festival and a fresh twist on traditional matsuri (Japan Travel).
Heat survival tips
- Stay hydrated and carry a folding fan
- Pop into an air-conditioned department store
- Wear light, breathable clothing (tokyo summer heat survival)
For more on Tokyo’s warm-weather events and insider survival tips, head to tokyo summer festivals guide.
Embrace rainy season
June and early July bring the tsuyu (rainy season) to Tokyo. You might dodge showers, but plenty of seasonal celebrations brighten the drizzle.
Hydrangea and iris blooms
- Bunkyo Ajisai (hydrangea) Festival in Hakusan Shrine grounds
- Katsushika Shobu (iris) Matsuri around former Imperial Palace moats
- Best photo ops with lush blooms and temple backdrops (Go Tokyo)
Indoor markets and antiques
When raindrops fall, wander through Oedo Antique Market for vintage kimonos and retro finds. It’s one of Japan’s largest outdoor markets, but you can nip under tents when the skies open up (Japan Travel).
Rainy season activities
- Tea ceremony workshops in historic teahouses
- Museum nights and art gallery openings
- Seasonal sweets like hydrangea mochi and matcha treats (tokyo rainy season activities)
Check tokyo indoor activities rain for cosy retreats away from the drizzle.
Admire autumn attractions
As the heat fades, Tokyo’s parks and gardens erupt in reds, oranges, and golds. Fall festivals and illuminations make this season a photographer’s dream.
Autumn Ginza event
Stroll down Chuo Dori under paper lanterns and historic decorations for the Autumn Ginza event. It’s a fusion of traditional crafts and modern pop-up shops in Tokyo’s chic shopping district.
Moon viewing (Otsukimi)
In mid-September or October, head to Rikugien Garden for Otsukimi, the moon-viewing festival. Lanterns, poetry readings, and tea stalls set a tranquil scene under the harvest moon.
Evening illuminations
- Rikugien Garden lights up from mid-November to early December
- Marunouchi Illumination around Tokyo Station features over a million LED bulbs (Magical Trip)
- Perfect for date nights and cosmic photos
For tips on the best fall colours and spots, see tokyo autumn leaves best spots or explore foliage guides at tokyo momiji autumn colors.
Enjoy winter festivities
Winter in Tokyo may bring chilly air, but the city twinkles with lights, markets, and New Year traditions.
Winter illuminations
From November through February, dazzling light displays spring up across the city. Don’t miss Shinjuku, Roppongi Hills, and Caretta Shiodome for epic photo backdrops (see tokyo winter illuminations).
Christmas and year-end markets
Pop-up Christmas markets sell glühwein, crepes, and handcrafted gifts. Tokyo Midtown hosts a huge play of lights with a festive soundtrack (tokyo christmas events).
New Year celebrations
Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year, is a must-do. Join crowds at Meiji Jingu or Sensoji in Asakusa for prayers, omikuji (fortune slips), and festive street food (tokyo new year celebrations).
Plan your festival journey
Before you head out, here are key tips to make your matsuri call go smoothly.
What to pack and wear
- Lightweight layers in spring and autumn
- Raincoat or umbrella during tsuyu
- Kimono rental for special shrine processions (tokyo seasonal clothing)
Navigating crowds and transport
- Use early morning trains or late evening subways to avoid rush hour
- Grab a Suica card for seamless metro and bus rides (tokyo seasonal transportation)
- Check crowd forecasts to pick quieter viewing spots (tokyo seasonal crowds)
Savor seasonal foods
- Dango and sakura mochi in spring
- Yakisoba and kakigori (shaved ice) in summer
- Roasted sweet potatoes and chestnuts in autumn
- Oden and hot sake during winter stalls (tokyo seasonal foods)
Booking and budgeting
- Reserve ryokan or hotels early for major events like hanami or New Year
- Many festivals are free, but some shrine fairs charge small entrance fees
- Carry cash, as yatai (food stalls) often don’t take cards
For more insider advice, see tokyo seasonal travel tips.
FAQs
1. When is the best time to visit Tokyo for festivals?
Spring (late March to early April) and summer (July to August) host Tokyo’s most iconic festivals, though each season offers unique celebrations.
2. Do I need to buy tickets for matsuri?
Most matsuri are free to attend. Fireworks boat cruises or special shrine events may require advance booking or small fees.
3. How crowded do Tokyo festivals get?
Popular festivals can draw hundreds of thousands. Arrive early, or choose smaller neighbourhood events to dodge peak crowds.
4. Can I wear a yukata to summer festivals?
Yes, renting or buying a summer yukata adds to the experience. Many shops offer one-day rentals near major matsuri sites.
5. Are English guides available at festivals?
Some major events offer English signage and volunteers. Download local festival apps in advance or join guided group tours for an insider’s view.
