Nerd Nite Tokyo (June 16): Nerd Nite is “the Discovery Channel with beer”, a worldwide monthly event series that mixes presentations, performances, trivia, demos, music, and of course drinking. Themes for the June event include the “oh my god” particle and the dawn of the quantum age.

Photo by Brendan used under CC

Salsa Street Festival (June 17-18): Also taking place at Yoyogi Park is the Salsa Street Festival. You can join the crowd of dancers or just people watch—whatever suits your mood/skill set. And bring some cash to spare, you’ll probably want to grab some Latin American grub on offer.

Suggested Activity
Sumo Morning Practice Tour at Stable in Tokyo
Try this insider’s experience at a sumo wrestler morning practice session. Enjoy exclusive access to a sumo stable, watching as these massive athletes put themselves through their daily training regimen and go head-to-head.

The World Gourmet and Music Festival (June 17-18): Interested in eating, drinking, dancing and shopping—all in one spot? Head to the events square at Yoyogi Park where you can tuck into some international cuisine, get your groove on and peruse the flea market stalls.

antique market
Photo by Yoshikazu TAKADA used under CC

The Oedo Antique Market (June 18): A cheapo favorite, Japan’s biggest outdoor market in Japan is back at the Tokyo International Forum. It’s a great spot for finding unique souvenirs, decorating your apartment on a shoestring, or even just strolling around outdoors. The market will be canceled in case of rain through, so keep an eye on the forecast.

Live from the Kitchen Disco – Vol. 25 (June 18): Jam out at a free show featuring the best of Tokyo’s indie music scene at Shinjuku’s Papera. Hear pop-punk, blues, alternative rock, a funky covers band and more.

Photo by Tetsuya Odaka used under CC

Bunkyo Ajisai (Hydrangea) Festival (June 10-18): Although June is the rainy season, it still has plenty to offer nature-wise. One such option is the stunning display of 10,000 hydrangea plants at Hakusan Shrine.

tokyo fireflies festivals
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Firefly nights (throughout June): There are various festivals around the Tokyo that mark the start of summer by hosting firefly viewing nights. Don’t miss your chance to see this spectacular phenomenon! Events to be noted for this weekend include the Fussa Firefly Festival and the Botanical Garden Fureai Firefly Nights. See our guide for more details.

iris festival tokyo
Photo by TANAKA Juuyoh (田中十洋) used under CC

Iris Flower Festival (ongoing until June 18): If 10,000 hydrangea flowers don’t impress you, how about 14,000 lovely iris plants dispersed across the even lovelier Mizumoto Park? And don’t expect just nature to fulfill your weekend, there will be a variety of events including musical performances spanning the 20-day festival.

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