Top Tokyo Festivals and Events
Tokyo is a city of traditions, modernity and endless celebration. From high-energy neighborhood matsuris (festivals) to vibrant multicultural gatherings, Tokyo’s festivals in 2025 promise unforgettable experiences for locals and travelers alike. Here are five standout events that showcase the city’s spirit, culture and diversity.
Sanja Matsuri: Tokyo’s Wildest Shrine Festival
The legendary Sanja Matsuri is one of Tokyo’s biggest and most thrilling Shinto festivals. Held over the course of three days in Asakusa, it honors the three men who founded Sensō-ji Temple. The streets fill with energy as more than 100 mikoshi (portable shrines) are paraded through the neighborhood by teams of locals, many in traditional happi coats.
Expect crowds, chanting taiko drums, and a lively atmosphere with food stalls, festival games and live music. The celebration captures the heart of Edo-era Tokyo and is a must-see for anyone interested in local traditions.
Dates: May 16–18 2025
Venue: Asakusa Shrine, Taito Ward
Nearest Station: Asakusa Station (Ginza Line, Asakusa Line, Tobu Line)
Philippine Festival Tokyo: A Celebration of Culture and Community
The Philippine Festival Tokyo is the largest Filipino cultural event in Japan, bringing thousands to Yoyogi Park each year. It features upbeat live music, traditional dances, cultural performances and special appearances by Filipino celebrities and musicians.
Food lovers can enjoy a wide variety of authentic Filipino dishes, such as lechon (roasted pig), halo-halo (shaved ice) and lumpia (spring rolls). The event also includes travel booths promoting Philippine destinations, community outreach and family-friendly activities. It’s a vibrant weekend full of color, connection and warm Filipino hospitality.
Dates: Early December 2025
Venue: Yoyogi Park Event Square
Nearest Station: Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line)
Kagurazaka Street Stage O-edo Tour: Step into Old Tokyo
Experience Tokyo’s traditional arts in the charming cobblestone streets of Kagurazaka, a former geisha district. The O-edo Tour transforms the neighborhood into an open-air cultural stage, with performances such as shamisen (three-stringed instrument music), rakugo (comic storytelling), tea ceremonies and street kabuki.
The event blends history with modern community spirit and is ideal for families and culture lovers. Local cafes and traditional shops open their doors, making it a perfect opportunity to explore Kagurazaka’s unique blend of Edo nostalgia and Parisian flair.
Dates: May 17–18
Venue: Kagurazaka neighborhood, Shinjuku Ward
Nearest Station: Iidabashi Station (JR Chuo Line, Tokyo Metro)
Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival: A Dazzling Summer Tradition
This festival is one of Tokyo’s most iconic summer events, lighting up the night sky over the Sumida River. First held in the 18th century as a way to honor the dead and ward off evil spirits, it’s now a beloved tradition that draws nearly a million spectators every year.
More than 20,000 fireworks are launched in a dazzling display of color and precision, including creative designs and fireworks synchronized to music. Locals dressed in yukata arrive early with picnic mats and enjoy street food such as takoyaki (fried octopus), yakisoba (grilled noodles) and kakigori (shaved ice) while waiting for the show. It’s a quintessential Tokyo summer experience.
Date: Late July
Venue: Sumida River, near Asakusa
Nearest Station: Asakusa Station (Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line)
Plan Your Tokyo Festival Adventure
From historical re-enactments and sacred traditions to food-filled cultural celebrations, these top 2025 Tokyo events offer something for everyone. Be sure to check schedules in advance, arrive early and soak in the atmosphere.