Free things to do in Tokyo this week

The UNU farmers’ market is one of Tokyo’s longest running and best-attended markets. Taking place every weekend in front of the university’s Aoyama headquarters, this one always attracts a knowledgeable crowd. Organic and local fare is readily available every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm, with the farmers themselves happy to provide details about their wares. Plus, there's always a few food trucks on hand if you wish to enjoy a quick meal.

Kachiya Matsuri commemorates the Heian court bureaucrat Fujiwara no Hidesato's prayer for victory, after which he successfully quelled an uprising spearheaded by samurai rebel Taira no Masakado. The festival dates back to Hidesato's offering of his bow and arrow to the shrine after his victory in battle. In today's modern iteration of the festival, you’ll witness the dedication of a kachiya (victory arrow) and a traditional warrior parade. Here's the samurai procession route, which begins at 1pm, on Google Maps.

The Kurayami Matsuri, or ‘darkness festival’, is a week-long event at the Okunitama Shrine out in Fuchu. The festivities take place throughout Golden Week, with float parades, performances and lots of family-friendly fun. We recommend visiting on the evening of May 5, when eight mikoshi (portable shrines) are carried through the shrine grounds to the beat of huge taiko drums. Don’t miss the spectacular yabusame (horseback archery) demonstration at 10.30pm on the same day. Check the full programme details (in Japanese) on their website. 

Japan’s biggest Cambodia Festival takes place over the Golden Week holidays at Yoyogi Park Events Square. This two-day celebration of Cambodian culture features traditional dance performances, plus roughly 60 stalls dealing in authentic Cambodian cuisine, refreshing Angkor beer, handicrafts and more. The festival takes place from 10am to 7pm on both days. Entry is free and you just pay for food and drink as you go.