Written by Alexandra Ziminski
Researched by Patrick Balfe
Spring is coming to a close, so make the most of the pleasant weather in May before it begins to get uncomfortably humid in June.
We’ve rounded up the best festivals and events you’ll find in Tokyo this month, and believe us, there’s a lot going on.
For the top events in Tokyo throughout the year, check out our complete guide — organized by month.
1. Golden Week events
Food, traditional, and international festivals
Golden Week, a string of holidays in late April to early May, is a welcome respite for Tokyo’s frazzled workforce, a cash cow for the travel and transport industries, and a bane (in terms of price, traffic, and crowd density at tourist areas) to travelers — all at the same time.
If you’re in Tokyo for Golden Week, it might be better to just stay where you are and check out the many events that will be held during this time (and read our guide to Golden Week while you’re at it).
Here are some of the top things to see and do, split into categories:
International festivals
- Cambodia Festival (May 3–4)
- Odaiba Oktoberfest (Apr. 24–May 6) — Get tickets early
- Haisai Okinawa Festival (May 2–6)
Food festivals
- Niku Fes — “Meat Fest” (Apr. 29–May 10)
- Odaiba Kakigori (Shaved Ice) Festival (Apr. 26–May 6)
- Craft Gyoza Fes (Apr. 29–May 6)
- The Meat Saitama (May 1–6)
Traditional festivals
- Meiji Shrine Spring Grand Festival (May 2–May 3)
- Odawara Hōjō Godai Festival (May 3)
- Kurayami Festival (Apr. 30–May 6)
- Kazo Citizens’ Peace Festival (May 3)
- Ōme Grand Festival (May 2–3)
- Koinobori at Tokyo Tower (Mar. 18–May 6)
Still stuck on what to do? We have plenty more May events to browse.
2. Sanja Matsuri
Tattooed men and rowdy processions
Sanja Matsuri features three main mikoshi (portable shrines) in honor of the three founders of Asakusa’s famous temple, Sensōji — which is also the festival’s center of activity. The mikoshi depart from Sensōji early in the morning and are carried around town, as performers — including geisha — join in.
Yakuza members are also known to show off their intricate tattoos at this rowdy, energetic festival. Meanwhile, back at Sensōji, there will be taiko performances and traditional dances by miko (shrine maidens).
3. Zushi Beach Fireworks Festival
Sun, sea, and thousands of fireworks
A sample of what’s to come this summer, the Zushi Beach Fireworks Festival is one of the earliest fireworks festivals on the calendar.
7,000 jets of light will blast off into the sky for 45 minutes from 7:30 p.m. With one of the most impressive finales of the year, 5,000 of those fireworks will go off in the last 15 minutes.
4. Thai Festival
The very best Thai food and live demonstrations
Spicy foods, Thai massages, music, and mascots — this cultural festival has it all. Experience the very best Thailand has to offer in the welcoming atmosphere of Yoyogi Park Events Square.
The stage schedule will be packed with Thai dancing, Muay Thai displays, and live shows by Thai music artists.
5. Azuma Odori
An annual dance performance presented by the geisha of Shimbashi
Azuma Odori is an annual dance performance presented by the geisha of Shinbashi (Shimbashi), one of Tokyo’s historic hanamachi, or geisha districts.
The program is staged in multiple acts and blends classical dance and music. Between acts, the Shimbashi Enbujō theater takes on the atmosphere of something like a traditional high-end Japanese restaurant, with intermissions devoted to food, sake, tea, and souvenirs.
6. Tokyo Night Market
Outdoor food and drinks in the balmy nights of late spring
Take a break and head to the rare appearance of a night market in Tokyo. The avenue beside Yoyogi Park Events Square will be filled with local crafts, typical festival dishes, and drinks. Browse with a beer or snack in hand and hear musical performances — like DJs and idol groups — from the stage.
7. Greenroom Festival
A bayside music festival for a good cause
Since 2005, Yokohama’s Greenroom Festival has advocated for clean oceans through a mix of music, art, and culture. This year, the event will welcome international artists such as Jon Batiste, Ezra Collective, and Emma-Jean Thackray, to name a few.
In addition to music, the event will feature an eclectic mix of visual and performing arts, as well as food and market stalls.
8. Adachi Fireworks Festival
A massive fireworks display in May
Settle down on the banks of the Arakawa River and watch 13,000 fireworks go off, just 15 minutes from Kita-Senju Station. In an increasingly popular move for Tokyo fireworks, the festival was moved from July to May in order to avoid the storms and heat of summer.
Paid seating starts at ¥5,000, but there will also be some free viewing spots available.
While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change. Post first published in April 2017. Last updated in April 2026 by Patrick Balfe.
Get our Tokyo Cheapo Hacks direct to your inbox
-
Tokyo Events This Week: Bon Dances, Brazil Festival, and Sky Lanterns
Tokyo events for Monday, July 13, to Sunday, July 19, 2026.
-
teamLab Borderless: Everything You Need To Know
Updated with details on the summer 2026 special installation.
-
7 Best Tanabata Festivals Around Tokyo
Our favorite "Star Festival" celebrations in and around the city.
-
Top 5 Yoyogi Park Summer Events in 2026
Head to Yoyogi Square for flamenco, super yosakoi dance shows, beach fests, Brazilian food, and more.
-
July 2026: 8 Tokyo Events Not To Miss
Get your yukata on and get out there — the best is yet to come.
-
International Musicians Touring Japan in 2026–27
Updated with a raft of new names — including Post Malone and Belle and Sebastian.
-
-
The Survival Guide to Shinjuku Station
Conquer the world's busiest station with our guide to the exits, train lines, lockers, food, and more.
-
Where To Get a Tattoo in Tokyo -
Grutto Pass: Your Ticket To Exploring Tokyo’s Museums, Parks, and Galleries -
The Best Pocket Wi-Fi for Visiting Japan — Compared -
Go-Karting in Tokyo: What To Know Before You Book -
Morning Sumo Practice in Tokyo—Everything You Need To Know -
First-Time Harajuku Itinerary: Fashion, Street Food, and More
Recommended hotels located nearby
-
Asakusa 0.4 km -
Asakusa 0.5 km
-
Asakusa 0.6 km
-
Asakusa 0.2 km
