Written by Alexandra Ziminski
Tokyo events for Monday, May 19 to Sunday, May 25, 2025.
One of the first fireworks shows of the year will take place off the coast near Zushi, and everyone will be celebrating Laos at Yoyogi Park.
Shinjuku gets even more rambunctious (if that’s at all possible) at the local shrine’s annual festival , and meat, beer, and Italian cuisine are also on the Tokyo events menu.
Zushi Beach Fireworks Festival
If you want to avoid the crowded mid-summer fireworks calendar, then go to this early summer fireworks festival that takes place over the ocean adjacent to Zushi Beach.
Tokyo Tower Climb
A chance to climb one of Tokyo’s more iconic structures while raising awareness around mental health issues, the TELL Tokyo Tower Climb is an event created to (roughly) coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day and see participants run, walk, or climb up 600 steps. As an NPO that has championed mental well-being in Japan for 47 years, TELL is proud to step up for this life-affirming cause.
May Grand Sumo Tournament
Held every May, this is the third of Japan’s six annual Sumo Tournaments, known as honbasho and one of only three to be held in Tokyo. With sumo rankings released a few weeks before, it’s a chance to see the traditional sport up close and personal.
Laos Festival
The Laos Festival is filled with Laotian dancing, music, workshops, and — arguably best of all — food. Catch live performances of traditional Lao music and dance, and experience the excitement of Boun Bang Fai (the Lao Rocket Festival parade). Shop for handmade textiles and specialty products.
Nikuon
Meat meets music at this unique fusion festival in eastern Tokyo. Nikuon, from the Japanese niku meaning meat, is an event showcasing some of Tokyo’s most innovative musicians and meals. Keep yourself going through the beats with some of Tokyo’s best meaty snacks.
Star Island Odaiba Fireworks Festival
Experience fireworks like never before over two nights at the Star Island Odaiba Fireworks Festival this May. Thousands of fireworks are expected to go off over the two days and a special 3D sound and laser show will also wow onlookers.
Tokyo Night Market
Wander under the boughs of Yoyogi Park while experiencing some of Tokyo’s charm and culture at the Tokyo Night Market. Settle down under stages with live music acts and performances and explore the art galleries set up under the tents.
Italia, amore mio!
The biggest Italian festival in Japan, organized by the Italian Chamber of Commerce, is back. See a stellar lineup of Italian and Japanese guest chefs and artists, offering engaging talks, cooking demonstrations, and live performances.
Hanazono Shrine Grand Festival
The streets of Shinjuku get a whole lot busier during the annual grand festival, known as a reitaisai, of Hanazono Shrine. There will be many food stalls and festivities around the shrine.
Oedo Beer Festival Spring
The spring version of the Oedo Beer Festival has returned to give craft beer fans even more choice of places in which to spend a spring outing. Some notable brewers in attendance include Sapporo Beer, Twin Peaks Mountain Brewing, and T.Y. Harbor Brewery.
Get our Tokyo Cheapo Hacks direct to your inbox
-
Tokyo Events This Week: Sanja Matsuri, Shibuya Kagoshima Parade, and Okinawa Festival
Tokyo events for Monday, May 12 to Sunday, May 18, 2025.
-
13 Things To Do in Roppongi
Spidey Maman, space fish, sake tasting—and so much more.
-
May 2025: 7 Events Not To Miss in Tokyo
With mega-fests like Sanja Matsuri and the Golden Week holiday, you're spoiled for choice.
-
Dates Announced for Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival 2025
The big daddy of Tokyo fireworks festivals is back with a bang.
-
3 Things To See at Glass Rock, Newest Part of Toranomon Hills
Exclusive teas and sweets, craft beer, and an unusual bookstore beckon.
-
New Video! Top 14 Things to Do in Asakusa
Watch as we take you around Sensōji Temple, Kitchen Street, and matcha and sweet stores.
-
Tokyo’s Best Apartment-Style Hotels, by Area -
Highway to Hot Springs: Tokyo to Kusatsu Onsen by Bus -
The Best Pocket Wi-Fi for Visiting Japan — Compared -
Go-Karting in Tokyo: Everything You Need To Know -
Morning Sumo Practice in Tokyo—Everything You Need To Know -
First-Time Harajuku Itinerary: Fashion, Street Food, and More
