Tokyo Events in April 2024
Tokyo, known for its bustling city life and unique cultural experiences, is gearing up for various events in April 2024. From sumo-focused street festivals to colorful flower celebrations, Tokyo is set to host various captivating events in April 2024. As spring takes center stage, the city’s vibrant atmosphere will be complemented by lively cultural activities and awe-inspiring displays of natural beauty.
This month is packed with traditional and modern celebrations that will captivate locals and tourists alike.
Date | Name | Category |
---|---|---|
Mid-March to Early April 2024 | Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival | Cherry Blossom Festival |
Early April 2024 | African Festival Yokohama | Cultural Festival |
April 11 to 18th, 2024 | Kamakura Festival | Festival |
March 17 – April 9, 2024 | Nihonbashi Sakura Festival | Cherry Blossom Festival |
Mid-March and mid-April 2024 | Discover Dogtooth Violets at Shiroyama Katakuri no Sato | Flower Festival |
Mid-April 2024 | Waseda Regatta | Rowing Competition |
Mid April 2024 | S2O Japan Songkran Music Festival | Music Festival |
Mid-April 2024 | Nakizumo Crying Baby Festival | Cultural Festival |
Mid-late April 2024 | Ukima Park Tulip Illumination | Flower Festival |
April 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th | Hanazono Shrine Antique Market | Market |
Mid to Late April 2024 | Earth Day Tokyo | Eco-friendly Event |
Mid to Late April 2024 | Belgian Beer Weekend Toyosu | Beer Festival |
Early April to Late May 2024 | Mt. Takao Wakaba Festival | Festival |
Late April 2024 | Kawaii Flea Market | Market |
Late April 2024 | Ryōgoku Nigiwai Festival | Festival |
Late April to Early May 2024 | Tokyo Rainbow Pride | LGBTQ+ Festival |
April 30th to May 6th 2024 | Kurayami Festival | Festival |
Tokyo Events in April 2024
Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival: Embracing the Beauty of Sakura
Dates: Mid-March to Early April 2024
Location:5-20 Uenokoen, Taito-ku, Tokyo-to
The Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the most anticipated events in Tokyo during springtime. Hanami enthusiasts can enjoy over 800 cherry trees adorned with delicate pink blossoms at Ueno Park, one of Tokyo’s most popular cherry blossom hotspots.
A Spectacle of Cherry Blossoms Illuminated at Night
Apart from daytime viewing, visitors should not miss the nighttime illuminations that create a magical atmosphere under the illuminated cherry trees. The festival also features various music performances and parades from March 25 to 26.
How to Get There
With its convenient location on the Yamanote Line, Ueno Park is easily accessible anywhere in Tokyo. Ueno Station is just four stops from Tokyo Station. Look for the Park Exit at Ueno Station, which leads directly to the side entrance of Ueno Park.
Yoyogi Park Wanwan Carnival: A Celebration of All Things Canine
Dates: Early April 2024
Location: Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park welcomes dog lovers to attend the annual Wanwan Carnival, a festival dedicated to everything doggy. From dog clothes and grooming services to professional photo sessions and agility contests, this event caters to furry friends and their owners alike.
During this two-day extravaganza held on April 8 and 9, dozens of booths offer treats, toys, and accessories for pets. Guests can register their dogs for yoga classes or enjoy a meal together with their canine companions.
Sakura Genesis: Action-Packed Pro-Wrestling Event
Dates: Early April 2024
Location: Ryōgoku Kokugikan, Tokyo’s sumo stadium
Sports enthusiasts should not miss out on the exciting Sakura Genesis professional wrestling event held at Ryōgoku Kokugikan, Tokyo’s sumo stadium. The New Japan Pro-Wrestling event features various matchups led by Kazuchika Okada facing off against SANADA in an IWGP World Heavyweight Championship match.
Wrestling fans residing outside of Japan can catch live-streamed matches through the NJPW World App or watch via Video on Demand services later on.
Kamakura Festival Highlights Yabusame Tradition
Dates: April 11 to 18th, 2024
Location: Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shrine
From April 11 to 18th at the beautiful Tsurugaoka Hachimangū Shrine, the 65th Kamakura Festival (Kamakura Matsuri) will take place, offering various parades and performances for locals and visitors to enjoy. The highlight of this ancient festival is a thrilling display of horseback archery (Yabusame) that spectators can witness on April 16. Due to its popularity, wristbands must be secured in advance for prime viewing locations.
The Kamakura Festival is spread over multiple days, incorporating dances, tea-offering ceremonies, Mikoshi parades (portable shrines), and temple prayers. During the climactic event – the Yabusame contest – participants ride horses down a straight path while dressed in Samurai garb, striking targets with arrows as they race by. To attend this captivating event, take the JR train to Kamakura Station, which is only a 10-minute walk away from the Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine.
Nihonbashi Sakura Festival: An Eclectic Cherry Blossom Experience
Dates: March 17 – April 9, 2024
Location: Nihonbashi, Yaesu, and Kyobashi areas
The Nihonbashi Sakura Festival offers a unique cherry blossom experience in the heart of Tokyo. Despite not being as densely populated with cherry trees as other areas, the festival compensates with dazzling installations and illuminations in major local landmarks like Mitsui Building and Coredo Muromachi.
Visitors to this festival can also enjoy gourmet food stalls, art exhibitions, music performances, and even participate in treasure hunts. Participating restaurants and shops offer special “Sakura Menu” items featuring spring-themed delights.
Discover Dogtooth Violets at Shiroyama Katakuri no Sato
Dates: mid-March and mid-April 2024
Japan’s variety of springtime blooms draws countless visitors each year, but Kanagawa’s Shiroyama Katakuri no Sato offers a quieter, underrated option with its beautiful display of katakuri, also known as dogtooth violets. Between mid-March and mid-April 2024, this privately-owned garden will open its doors to the public for an exclusive opportunity to appreciate vibrant purple flowers in full bloom.
To visit the garden via public transport, head to JR Hashimoto Station on the Yokohama Line, Sagami Line, or Keio Sagamihara Line and catch the Kanagawa bus towards Mikage. Disembark at Shiroyama General Office and follow a 20-minute walk to reach your destination.
Spring Flowers at Showa Kinen Park: Where Nature Blooms
Dates: Mid-March to Late May 2024
Location: Showa Kinen Park, Tachikawa
Boasting an array of blooming flowers throughout spring, Showa Kinen Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers looking to unwind from bustling city life. Discover picturesque cherry blossoms, rape blossoms, tulips, and more as you explore this verdant haven that stretches over 1.8 square kilometers (0.7 square miles).
Midtown Blossom: A Unique Hanami Experience
Dates: mid-March and mid-April 2024
Location: Tokyo Midtown and Hinoki-cho Park
Between mid-March and mid-April 2024 at Tokyo Midtown and Hinoki-cho Park, visitors can revel in Roppongi’s annual Midtown Blossom event. Alongside a breathtaking avenue of cherry trees spanning 200 meters, attendees can peruse street museums, relax in the outdoor Midtown Blossom Seltzer Lounge, and enjoy enchanting illuminated sakura during nightly light-ups. Feast your eyes on the alternating pink and white lights that change as cherry blossoms transition from budding to blooming.
Kameido Tenjin Wisteria Festival: Celebrating Beauty in Full Bloom
Dates: Early April to Late April 2024
Location: Kameido Tenjin Shrine
Famed for its stunning wisteria blooms during springtime, the Kameido Tenjin Wisteria Festival showcases over 100 species of Azalea amidst iconic views of vermilion bridges within the scenic shrine grounds. Illuminated after dusk during the festival, these wondrous blooms provide a memorable spectacle.
Waseda Regatta: Witness Rowing Rivalry on the Sumida River
Dates: mid-April 2024
Location: Waseda Regatta
In mid-April 2024, a century-old tradition continues as rowing teams from Waseda University and Keio University face off at the Waseda Regatta. This riveting competition sees boats speeding through the Sumida River between Shin-Ōhashi Bridge and Sakurabashi Bridge near Sumida Park. Keep an eye out for racing schedules throughout the day as well as the exciting main showdown between these two university giants.
Embrace Thai Culture at S2O Japan Songkran Music Festival
Dates: Mid April 2024
Bringing Thailand’s traditional watering festival into a contemporary setting, Japan’s mid-April S2O Songkran Music Festival promises a unique experience for both music lovers and those intrigued by cultural exchanges. Over the years, major international artists like Knife Party, Yellow Claw, Nicky Romero, Jay Hardway, Bass Jackers, and Vinai have graced the festival stage.
Nakizumo Crying Baby Festival: Blessings for Healthy Growth
Dates: mid-April 2024
Location: Sensoji Temple
Taking place at Sensoji Temple in mid-April 2024 is the unforgettable Nakizumo Crying Baby Festival. Babies, dressed in elaborate clothing and held by sumo wrestlers, face off in a competition where the loudest and quickest to cry wins. This unconventional festival aims to bring blessings for healthy development and drive away evil spirits from the participating infants.
To experience this unique event, visit Sensoji Temple, located just a four-minute walk from Asakusa Station.
Ukima Park Tulip Illumination: A Touch of Netherlands in Tokyo
Dates: mid-late April 2024
Location: Ukima Park
From late March to late April 2024, Ukima Park offers an enchanting glimpse into Dutch tulip fields, with more than 20,000 tulips on display alongside cherry blossoms. These vibrant flowers are illuminated during the Flower and Light Movement event, which also features nighttime light transformations at Toneri Park with cherry blossoms and nemophila displays. To reach Ukima Park, take the JR Saikyō Line to Ukimafunado Station – just a two-minute walk away.
Hanazono Shrine Antique Market: Hunting for Treasures
Dates: April 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th
Location: Hanazono Shrine Antique MarketUkima Park
Held on April 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th from 6:30 am to 3:00 pm, the Hanazono Shrine Antique Market is perfect for individuals seeking unique crafts, antiques, and clothes. With around 25-30 stalls present weekly (dependent on weather), this small market offers a laid-back shopping experience.
Earth Day Tokyo: Embracing Environmentally-Friendly Practices
Dates: Mid to Late April 2024
Location: Yoyogi Park Events Square
From mid-to-late April 2024 at Yoyogi Park Events Square, Earth Day Tokyo provides a wonderful platform for eco-focused NPOs, charities, and businesses to connect and educate attendees on sustainable living practices. Aside from exploring various stalls offering eco-friendly products, visitors can indulge in vegetarian food options available in the Earth Day Kitchen Zone while enjoying free art exhibitions and live music performances.
Belgian Beer Weekend Toyosu: Raise a Glass to Superior Brews
Dates: Mid to Late April 2024
In mid-to-late April 2024, Tokyo welcomes the Belgian Beer Weekend Toyosu, an 11-day event showcasing nearly 100 different types of Belgian beer. Discover the rich heritage behind these brews while sampling delicious roasted chicken, fries, and sweet Belgian waffles. Tickets can be purchased in advance through Family Mart stores.
Mt. Takao Wakaba Festival: Embracing Fresh Greenery and Traditions
Dates: Early April to Late May 2024
Location: 2208 Takaomachi, Hachioji-shi, Tokyo
Heralding the arrival of spring with vibrant greenery, the Mount Takao Wakaba Festival is packed with diverse events catering to people of all ages. From character shows and nursery rhyme concerts to traditional kuruma-ningyo puppetry performances, this three-star rated festival promises an unforgettable experience.
How to Get There
The 2024 Yoyogi Park WanWan Carnival takes place at the Yoyogi Park Outdoor Stage, a five-minute walk from Yoyogi Park Station on the Chiyoda Subway Line.
Kawaii Flea Market: A Quaint and Colorful Affair
Dates: Late April 2024
Location: Nakano or Ikebukuro
Held in late April at either Nakano or Ikebukuro locations, the Kawaii Flea Market offers a whimsical afternoon featuring previously-loved clothing, crafts, antiques, and more. With occasional independent artist and craftspeople stalls alongside live entertainment, this market offers Tokyo residents a fun weekend shopping experience.
Ryōgoku Nigiwai Festival: A Celebration of Sumo Culture
Dates: Late April 2024
Location: Ryogoku Kokugikan, Sumida District
The Ryogoku Nigiwai Festival is a unique event with a variety of activities taking place around the famous Kokugikan Sumo Stadium. Sumo enthusiasts will have the opportunity to visit the iconic venue, experience chankonabe (a hotpot dish consumed by sumo wrestlers), and even participate in a tea ceremony at the nearby Ekoin Temple.
Tokyo Rainbow Pride: A Celebration of Diversity and Acceptance
Dates: Late April to Early May 2024
Location: Yoyogi Park
A grand event representing Tokyo’s LGBTQ+ community, the Tokyo Rainbow Pride Festival features colorful parades, booths, and lively performances. The event welcomes individuals of all gender identities and sexual orientations to embrace diversity and promote inclusivity.
Kurayami Festival: A Unique Experience Encompassed by Darkness
Dates: April 30th to May 6th 2024
Location: Okunitama Shrine
A vital part of Japanese celebrations since ancient times, the Kurayami Festival offers a one-of-a-kind experience involving shrine processions taking place under the veil of darkness. With various horse-related ceremonies and taiko drum performances to captivate audiences, this seven-day event is not one to miss.
April 2024 is shaping up to be an incredible month for visitors to Tokyo. With an impressive lineup of events taking place throughout April 2024, Tokyo offers numerous opportunities to both locals and tourists alike for immersive cultural experiences and enchanting natural spectacles. From traditional cherry blossom festivals to contemporary celebrations, there are plenty of unique experiences waiting at every corner.
Whether you’re a nature lover or a thrill-seeker, Tokyo has something for everyone this spring. Tokyo offers numerous opportunities to both locals and tourists alike for immersive cultural experiences and enchanting natural spectacles. Don’t miss the chance to partake in these captivating festivities during your visit to the bustling metropolis.
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