Japanese Summers are filled with various festivals and events across the country. From traditional dances to fireworks shows and music festivals, there are numerous large-scale events that attract tourists from all over the world. In this article, we introduce carefully selected best summer festivals in Japan in 2024.
Summer Festivals in Japan
Summer is the season with the most festivals and events in Japan. Particularly in mid-August, during a period called “Obon,” when it’s believed that ancestors return to this world, numerous festivals are held across Japan. Event venues are lined with stalls offering local food and are crowded with people dressed in yukata. Most summer events are held outdoors, allowing you to enjoy the festivities while feeling the summer vibes.
There are many world-famous summer festivals in Japan, which attract numerous tourists to join in the fun. Some festivals even allow tourists to participate, offering a great opportunity to interact with locals and experience Japanese culture deeply through activities like carrying mikoshi (portable shrines) and traditional dances.
Best Summer Festivals 2024
Nebuta Festival
Nebuta Festival is held annually in Aomori City, and is a globally renowned summer festival. The main attraction of the festival is the night parade, where you’ll see massive floats designed based on myths and legends. The lanterns, which local people craft over a year, are spectacular. Another highlight is the energetic dance by performers called “haneto” to the beat of drums. Tourists can even join the dance if they wear the designated costume. The festival concludes with fireworks lighting up the sky.
- Dates: August 2-7, 2024
- Location: Central Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture
- Official Website: Nebuta Festival
Gion Festival
Kyoto’s Gion Festival, with over 1000 years of history, is one of Japan’s most famous festivals. Held throughout July, the main events are the grand processions of floats on July 17 and 24. These luxurious floats parade through the city, creating a fantastic scene. The festival area is lively with many food stalls, giving you opportunities to try out local foods. Due to its popularity, it’s highly recommended to book accommodations early if you stay in Kyoto during this season.
- Dates: July 1-31, 2024 (main events on July 17 and 24)
- Location: Central Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Official Website: Gion Festival
Tenjin Festival
Tenjin Festival, centred around Osaka’s Tenmangu Shrine, is considered as one of Japan’s three major festivals. The highlight is the river procession and the fireworks show. Around 100 boats parade along the river, creating a dynamic scene. At night, about 5000 fireworks are launched, reflecting off the river and creating a mesmerising view. “Gal Mikoshi,” a procession of only women carrying portable shrines, held the day before the main event, is unique and recommended to see.
- Dates: July 24-25, 2024
- Location: Around Osaka Tenmangu Shrine and Okawa River, Osaka Prefecture
- Official Website: Tenjin Festival
Awa Odori
Awa Odori in Tokushima is one of the most famous traditional “Bon Odori” dances in Japan. Bon Odori is a festival that welcomes and entertains the spirits of ancestors who have returned to this world. It’s an incredibly vibrant event with over 1,000 dance teams and more than 100,000 dancers in original costumes participating. A workshop is available for tourists to learn the steps and join the dance. Traditional yet inclusive, the festival attracts people from all over the world.
- Dates: August 12-15, 2024
- Location: Central Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture
- Official Website: Awa Odori
Sendai Tanabata Festival
Sendai Tanabata Festival, also known as the “Star Festival,” is a longstanding event held in Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture. Shopping arcades are adorned with beautifully decorated giant bamboo, designed and crafted by local companies and groups. Various events and parades also take place throughout the city during this festival.
- Dates: August 6-8, 2024
- Location: Central Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture
- Official Website: Sendai Tanabata Festival
Yosakoi Festival
Yosakoi Festival in Kochi City is an uplifting dance festival. The main attraction is the energetic dancers in colorful costumes, performing with traditional wooden clappers called “naruko.” Around 200 teams from across the country participate, each with unique choreography and music. Visitors can try on Yosakoi costumes or make their own naruko.
- Dates: August 9-12, 2024
- Location: Central Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture
- Official Website: Yosakoi Festival
Okinawa Zento Eisa Festival
Okinawa Zento Eisa Festival is a traditional dance festival held over three days in Okinawa City. Dancers parade through the city performing Eisa, a traditional Okinawan dance. This festival is the culmination of various Eisa events held throughout Okinawa during the summer. Only selected groups from different regions participate, showcasing high-level performances. The unique atmosphere of Okinawa adds to the festival’s charm.
- Dates: August 23-25, 2024
- Location: Central Okinawa City, Okinawa Prefecture
- Official Website: Okinawa Zento Eisa Festival
Yamagata Hanagasa Festival
Yamagata Hanagasa Festival in Yamagata City is a traditional and one of the best known summer festivals in the Tohoku region. Dancers hold beautifully decorated hats adorned with red safflowers and perform to traditional music. There are various types of Hanagasa dances, ensuring spectators always have something new to see. Visitors can also join in at the end of the parade.
- Dates: August 5-7, 2024
- Location: Central Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture
- Official Website: Yamagata Hanagasa Festival
Nagaoka Fireworks Festival
Nagaoka Fireworks Festival in Niigata Prefecture is considered one of Japan’s best fireworks shows. It began in 1945 as a prayer for post-war recovery and has continued for over 70 years. The firework called “Phoenix”, spanning about 2 kilometers, is particularly famous. Their dynamic and spectacular fireworks are truly mesmerising.
- Dates: August 2-3, 2024
- Location: Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, along the Shinano River
- Official Website: Nagaoka Fireworks Festival
Summer Sonic
Summer Sonic, held simultaneously in Tokyo and Osaka, is Japan’s largest music festival. Many world-famous artists are invited, this event is a must for music lovers. The venue offers numerous food and merchandise booths, providing plenty of other enjoyable activities besides music. It’s a globally popular event, so it’s recommended to purchase tickets early.
- Dates: August 17-18, 2024
- Locations: Tokyo (Chiba, Makuhari Messe), Osaka (Maishima Sports Island)
- Official Website: Summer Sonic
Japanese summer festivals are captivating events that showcase traditional culture and regional uniqueness. From traditional dances and fireworks shows to music events, you can enjoy a variety of experiences across different regions. Many festivals welcome tourist participation, so if you visit Japan in the summer, make sure to immerse yourself in the local culture!
