Written by Patrick Balfe
Tokyo events for Monday, August 17, to Sunday, August 23, 2026.
With August coming to a close, so too are summer festivals for 2026, but thankfully this week has more than a handful of local favorites to choose from. Shimokita is holding its annual Awa Odori festival and the streets of Azabu Jūban will be filled with food and fun. On top of that, Chuo and Roppongi are holding Bon Odori events, and Shibuya is throwing an anime music night.
Shibuya Anime Music Night: Opening Night
Tune into anime songs performed live by a real band in a Shibuya basement — then step up for wotagei, synchronized glow-stick choreography unique to Japanese idol and fandom culture. No experience needed.
Chuo Ward Oedo Bon Dance
At the Chuo Ward Bon Dance, local groups come together to put on a rehearsed and masterful performance. You’ll have a chance to see the traditional Bon dance, along with dancers clad in flowing robes and one of the largest yagura festival towers around.
Shimokitazawa Awa Odori Festival
Across two nights, 21 teams will parade along the route from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The festival features teams from all over Tokyo, but expect big cheers for the local Shimokitazawa crew.
Sancha Latin Festival
Held in Sangenjaya, this two-day celebration features live performances, amazing costumes, and a great atmosphere. The main event, the Samba Parade, will take place on Sunday, August 23, from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. along Chazawa Street.
Azabu Jūban Festival
Officially, this is the Azabu Jūban Noryo Festival. Although “Noryo” means “cooling evening”, this festival is held during the heat of the last weekend of August in the fashionable Azabu-Jūban neighborhood, and it’s all about the food.
Roppongi Hills Bon Dance
The sleek concrete of the Roppongi Hills Arena will be taken over by kimono-clad Bon dancers for the weekend. This festival boasts a unique dance, the Roppongi Workman’s Dance, which all are invited to master.
Ueno Panda Beer Festival
Held in the Fountain Square at Ueno Onshi Park, the Ueno Panda Beer Festival is a chance to try some drinks, dancing, and desserts. The event is split into areas focused on alcohol, food, and music.
Kanazawa Fireworks
Held in the southern part of Yokohama, this event sees around 3,500 fireworks launched into the skies above the city’s only swimming beach.
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