Japan July Events Festivals Must-See

Japan's summer months are a vibrant tapestry of festivals and events, each offering a unique glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage. From fireworks that light up the night sky to traditional parades and ceremonies, July is a prime time to experience Japan's festive spirit.

Summer Star Festival: Tanabata

Tanabata, or the Star Festival, is a celebration rooted in Chinese folklore and has become an integral part of Japanese culture. It commemorates the legend of Hikoboshi and Orihime, star-crossed lovers separated by the Milky Way who are allowed to meet only once a year on July 7. During Tanabata, families write their wishes on tanzaku (rectangular pieces of paper) and hang them on bamboo branches. Various festivals are held nationwide, with notable ones including the Sendai Tanabata Festival and the Tanabata Edoro Festival in Akita, known for their stunning decorations and illuminated drawings.

Gion Festival in Kyoto

The Gion Festival, held at Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto, is one of Japan's most famous and enduring festivals, dating back to the 9th century. The festival runs from July 1 to July 31, with the main event being the parade of yamaboko floats on July 17 and a smaller parade on July 24. These floats, registered as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, display the riches of local families and companies, essentially serving as "museums on wheels." The festival also includes traditional food stands, games, and a lively atmosphere.

Sumida River Fireworks Festival

The Sumida River Fireworks Festival, held on the last Saturday of July, is one of Japan's largest and oldest fireworks festivals. Taking place along the Sumida River near Asakusa in Tokyo, this event features approximately 20,000 fireworks launched from two sites, creating a spectacular display against the backdrop of the Tokyo SkyTree. The festival starts around 7:00 PM and lasts about 90 minutes. It is advisable to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, as the event attracts a large crowd.

Tenjin Matsuri in Osaka

The Tenjin Matsuri, celebrated at Osaka Tenman-gu Shrine, is one of Japan's three greatest festivals. It honors Sugawara no Michizane, the God of Learning. The main events take place on July 24 and 25, featuring a ritual at the shrine, drumming performances, and a shishimai lion dance. The festival culminates in a procession of traditional floats and portable shrines, followed by a fireworks display in the evening. The highlight is the transportation of the main portable shrine onto decorated boats, which are beautifully illuminated.

Kumagaya Uchiwa Matsuri

Held in Kumagaya, Saitama Prefecture, the Kumagaya Uchiwa Matsuri is a vibrant festival that takes place from July 20 to 22. The festival area around Kumagaya Station transforms into a lively celebration with elaborately decorated floats, traditional music, and the distribution of hand fans (uchiwa) by local shops. The festival's peak is on July 22, when all the floats gather at Festival Square, creating a colorful and energetic atmosphere.

Other Notable Festivals

• Aizen Festival: Celebrated at Shoman-in Temple in Osaka, this festival marks the beginning of summer with lively parades, traditional music, and local food stalls. It features the parade of "Aizen Girls" and offers a rich cultural experience.
• Toyohama Red Sea Bream Festival: Held in Minamichita, Aichi Prefecture, this unique festival involves the procession of giant red sea breams made of bamboo and cotton, which are then taken to the seaside. The event is a local tradition aimed at ensuring a bountiful catch for the year.
• Nagoya Port Fireworks Festival: Although smaller than other fireworks festivals, this event at Nagoya Port attracts over 300,000 people each year. It features creative fireworks displays despite its smaller scale.

Tips for Attending Summer Festivals

• Arrive Early: Festivals like the Sumida River Fireworks Festival can get very crowded, so arriving early to secure a good viewing spot is crucial.
• Comfortable Clothing: Summer festivals often take place in hot weather, so wearing comfortable clothing and staying hydrated is essential.
• Local Cuisine: Festivals offer a great opportunity to try local foods and drinks, which are often served at yatai (food stalls).
• Cultural Immersion: Participating in traditional dances, games, and ceremonies can enhance your festival experience and provide a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.

Each of these festivals offers a unique window into Japan's summer celebrations, blending tradition, culture, and entertainment in a way that is both captivating and memorable.