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It’s hard to believe August is almost here. The first weekend of the month is shaping up to be an exciting one in Tokyo, with numerous fireworks festivals and other summer festivities happening across the capital. If you’ve got time to squeeze in even more fun, there are also a number of traditional Bon Odori festivals taking place, with some celebrations starting earlier in the week. These lively summer gatherings are the perfect opportunity to join in the dancing, practice the traditional Bon Odori moves, and dress up in a yukata for the full festival experience.
Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple Noryo Bon Odori Festival
July 29-August 1
Summer in Tokyo is defined by festivals, and one of the most spectacular is Bon Odori, a traditional dance celebration held in neighbourhoods across the city. Originally a way to honour the spirits of the dead, Bon Odori has evolved into a lively, family-friendly event.
The celebration at Tsukiji Hongwanji from July 29 to August 1 is one of Tokyo’s most popular Bon Odori festivals. Don a yukata and join the crowds dancing around the yagura stage from 7pm to 9pm (6pm to 8.30pm on Saturday).
Not to worry if you don’t know the steps – just mimic the dance moves of the locals next to you. The festival is also famous for its delectable food selection from nearby Tsukiji Market, so go early and dance up an appetite for a feast.
Nakano Bon Odori Festival
August 1-2
Unlike most Bon Odori festivities in Tokyo which take place in the early evening, this event, held right outside Nakano Station, has an early start at around 10am with a series of music and dance performances. However, the main attraction only begins at 4.40pm, featuring celebrity guests (including the popular super sento idols Junretsu) and DJs playing J-pop tunes.
You can expect a good workout dancing to invigorating tracks from spinners including DJ Koo and DJ Celly. But what we are really looking forward to is matching Bon Odori dance steps to classic hits from Bon Jovi, who have endorsed the use of their songs at the festival.
Sunshine City Bon Odori
July 30-August 1
Put on a yukata and head over to Sunshine City’s 47th annual Bon Odori dance festival. The lively outdoor event, which is accompanied by invigorating taiko drum beats, takes place around a six metre-tall yagura turret decorated with colourful festive lanterns.
Inexperienced participants can simply copy the moves of the professionals who’re dancing at the top of the turret. The night will feature various traditional dances, including the Tokyo Ondo and Otsuka Monogatari Ondo, offering a glimpse into local dance traditions.
There will be ten food stalls and a children's matsuri game area where you can enjoy traditional Japanese festival grub and activities like shateki shooting and superball fishing for free. The event takes place every day from 7pm to 9.15pm at Sunshine Hiroba, which is on the rooftop of Sunshine City's Alpa shopping mall.
Ebisu Station Bon Odori
July 31-August 1
Join in and dance to the infectious rhythm of taiko drums at the Ebisu Bon Odori Festival on July 31 and August 1. This summer tradition, which is being held for the 71st time in 2026, always commands a large crowd. The event is held right in front of Ebisu Station, occupying a fairly spacious area outside the West gate.
For two days, a towering yagura stage will take over the taxi and bus drop-off zone while the entire area is closed off to traffic, allowing the public to move and dance around freely. Festival food stalls are set up near Shake Shack, and are joined by a kids' arcade and a kakigori shaved ice stand. Expect all the classic summer matsuri treats, from crispy fried dumplings and cucumber on a stick to refreshing desserts.
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