Written by Alexandra Ziminski
Tokyo events for Monday, June 16 to Sunday, June 22, 2025.
Candles take to the stage, along with international festivals this week.
See over 1,000 candles lit at Zōjōji Temple in the shadow of Tokyo Tower, try Taiwanese food at Ueno Park, or experience African and Jamaican culture near Yoyogi.
Candle Night for 1 Million People
As Tokyo Tower turns off its lights, more than 1000 candles will be lit for this poignant annual event. Candles of all shapes (incl. vegetables), colors, and sizes will be lit. This is done with thoughts of protecting the earth and joining together amidst current worldwide issues.
Yu-Asobi Exhibition: Opening Night
This unique open-air gallery exhibition will take the yu-asobi (playing in hot water) concept to Tokyo’s streets. The opening event happens on June 21 and the exhibition will run from June 20 till July 18.
Taiwan Festival in Ueno Park
This is a Taiwan food festival in the heart of Ueno Park. Many visitors will head straight for the food stalls. There you can load up on papaya milk, sweet potato dumplings, roe sausage, and more. There will also be an entertainment stage with music and dance performances, a beer garden, and various food workshops.
Nakaita Summer Festival
Previously known as Nakaita Heso Matsuri or belly dancing festival, this event has since evolved into the Nakaita Summer Festival. There will be belly dances performances and a curry festival.
African Heritage Festival
Discover the wonders of Tanzania, South Africa, Rwanda, and more at the African Heritage Festival. Get a position at the front of the stage to hear folk music from the volunteer African Heritage Band, who’ll wow the crowd with their vocals and traditional instruments.
Rainbow Reel Lesbian & Gay Film Festival
Pride, identity, and storytelling. Rainbow Reel is Japan’s longest-running LGBTQ+ film festival. This beloved annual event brings together an eclectic mix of queer cinema from around the globe.
Jamaica Festival
Head to the Jamaica Festival for music, markets, and munchies. The main event will be the lineup of performers on stage, with live folk and reggae music to rock out to. Grab your spot and cheer with the crowd to the sounds of tropical tunes.
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