Get ready for an exciting summer in Tokyo! The vibrant city comes alive with traditional festivals, marking the start of a season full of joy and celebration. This year, the hydrangea season sets the stage for an unforgettable weekend experience with three major festivals happening simultaneously from June 7th to 9th.
A Kaleidoscope of Cultural Heritage
Each festival boasts a unique charm, showcasing the rich history and traditions of Tokyo. Grand parades are the heart of these events, with ornate portable shrines carried through bustling streets, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for spectators. These celebrations are a living testament to the city’s Edo Period heritage (1603-1867), offering a glimpse into the past.
Here’s a glimpse into what awaits you:
Sanno Matsuri: A Grand Celebration of Tradition
This festival, one of the three great festivals of Edo, dates back to the early 17th century. The Sanno Matsuri kicks off the city’s summer festival season with a vibrant parade on Friday, June 7th. The procession starts at 7:45 AM and stretches until 5 PM, featuring dazzling floats, elaborately dressed revelers, and an array of cultural performances.
The procession follows a fascinating route, passing landmarks like the Imperial Palace, Tokyo Station, and the iconic Ginza Clock Tower.
The Hie Shrine, the festival’s main site, also hosts various events, including the enchanting “Chindonya” parade, where children dressed in vibrant orange and purple costumes parade through the streets, symbolizing growth and health.
Tsukiji Shishi Matsuri: A Lion Dance Spectacle
This festival, held every three years, takes place around the Namiyoke Inari Shrine, located at the edge of the Tsukiji Outer Market.
The Tsukiji Shishi Matsuri, or Lion Dance Festival, is a visual feast, with lions dancing through the streets, accompanied by vibrant music and traditional costumes. The festival offers a glimpse into the sacred Shinto music and dance performances of the Edo period.
The main event, on Sunday, June 9th, begins at 9 AM with a vibrant procession, ending at 3:30 PM at the shrine.
Torigoe Matsuri: A Showdown of Strength and Tradition
This festival, held near Torigoe Shrine in Asakusabashi, is known for its intense “mikoshi” carrying contests, where participants battle it out to carry a massive four-ton portable shrine.
The main event takes place on Sunday, June 9th, from 7 AM to 9 PM, with the “mikoshi” parade reaching its peak around 7 PM. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the spectacle of the “mikoshi” being carried through the streets.
A Weekend of Photographic Opportunities
These festivals offer a unique chance to capture the vibrant culture of Tokyo through photography. The colorful parades, traditional costumes, and captivating performances provide an endless source of inspiration for photographers.
So, grab your camera, join the celebrations, and experience the magic of Tokyo’s summer festivals!
