Yasukuni Shrine’s annual Mitama Matsuri is one of Tokyo’s largest Obon festivals. First held in 1947, the festival is best known for its 30,000 lanterns: 10,000 large lanterns light the approach to the shrine while 20,000 smaller ones are set up at the inner shrine grounds. This year, the lanterns will be illuminated daily from dusk until 9.30pm between the days of July 13 and July 16.
During this four-day festival, Yasukuni Shrine’s outer gardens will host a series of daily events, such as a noryo summer folk dancing festival around the bronze statue of Masujiro Omura (times unannounced for 2026) and a beautiful display of Sendai Tanabata ornaments. Plus, you’ll also find a congregation of food trucks selling street food throughout the festival period.
Don’t miss the Awa Odori dance and taiko drumming performances on Monday July 13 at 7.30pm and 8.30pm, respectively. Arguably the highlights of the festivities, these performances are joined by the spectacular Nebuta float processions taking place on Thursday July 16 from 6.30pm.
The event takes place from 5pm to 9.30pm daily.