January:
- New Year’s Celebrations: Join locals at shrines and temples for hatsumode (first shrine visit of the year) and enjoy traditional Japanese rituals and festivities.
- Tokyo Auto Salon: Car enthusiasts gather at this annual event to admire the latest automotive trends and aftermarket modifications.
February:
- Setsubun Festival: Participate in bean-throwing ceremonies at shrines and temples to ward off evil spirits and welcome good luck for the new year.
- Tokyo Marathon: Cheer on participants as they race through the streets of Tokyo in one of the world’s major marathons.
March:
- Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing): Experience the beauty of cherry blossoms in full bloom at parks and gardens throughout Tokyo, such as Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen.
- Tokyo International Anime Fair: Anime fans gather to celebrate Japanese animation and manga culture at this annual event.
April:
- Sumo Grand Tournament: Witness the excitement of sumo wrestling as top-ranked wrestlers compete for glory at Ryogoku Kokugikan.
- Golden Week: Enjoy a series of national holidays, including Showa Day, Constitution Memorial Day, Greenery Day, and Children’s Day, leading to extended vacation periods and various festivities.
May:
- Sanja Matsuri: Experience one of Tokyo’s largest and most vibrant festivals at Asakusa Shrine, featuring traditional mikoshi (portable shrine) parades and lively street performances.
- Design Festa: Explore the creativity of independent artists and designers from around the world at Asia’s largest art event held in Tokyo Big Sight.
June:
- Sanno Matsuri: Join the celebrations of Tokyo’s oldest festival, featuring processions, traditional music, and performances at Hie Shrine.
- Ebisu Beer Festival: Sample a wide selection of craft beers and enjoy live music and food stalls at Yebisu Garden Place.
July:
- Mitama Matsuri: Pay respects to the departed during this lantern festival at Yasukuni Shrine, featuring thousands of lanterns illuminating the shrine grounds.
- Sumida River Fireworks Festival: Marvel at the spectacular fireworks display along the Sumida River, one of Tokyo’s largest and most popular summer events.
August:
- Obon Festival: Experience traditional Obon celebrations, including bon odori (folk dance) performances and lantern ceremonies, honoring ancestral spirits at various temples and shrines.
- Comiket (Comic Market): Immerse yourself in the world of manga and doujinshi (self-published works) at this biannual comic convention held at Tokyo Big Sight.
September:
- Tokyo Game Show: Discover the latest trends in gaming and interactive entertainment at Asia’s largest gaming expo.
- Tokyo Jazz Festival: Enjoy world-class jazz performances by renowned artists from Japan and abroad at venues across the city.
October:
- Meiji Shrine Autumn Festival: Experience traditional music, dance, and rituals during this annual festival celebrating the autumn harvest at Meiji Shrine.
- Tokyo International Film Festival: Attend screenings of international and domestic films, along with special events and celebrity appearances, at venues in central Tokyo.
November:
- Shichi-Go-San Festival: Witness children dressed in traditional kimono celebrating their growth and well-being during this coming-of-age festival at shrines throughout Tokyo.
- Tokyo Grand Tea Ceremony: Experience the art of Japanese tea ceremony and participate in cultural workshops at Hama-rikyu Gardens and other venues.
December:
- Christmas Illuminations: Admire dazzling light displays and festive decorations at shopping districts, theme parks, and landmarks throughout Tokyo, such as Tokyo Midtown and Roppongi Hills.
- Year-End Sales: Take advantage of year-end sales and special promotions at department stores and shopping malls across Tokyo, offering discounts on a wide range of goods and products.
TOP TRAVEL & FOOD MAGAZINE 