This lively festival happens on the last weekend of July and attracts around 30,000 spectators each year.
What happens?
On the evening of Friday, July 26, there is a mikoshi entrance ceremony and the annual festival ceremony happens the next morning, Saturday, July 27, at 9:00 a.m.
Sunday, July 28 is the most important day as this is when the main processions take place. Around 3,000 volunteers, from 14 neighborhoods, carry mikoshi (portable shrines) in a unique but rigorous way known as yokota. This involves tilting the mikoshi to a 90-degree angle and passing it between the carriers who are jumping up and then crouching down. The first procession stars from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and the second from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
As well as this, local students perform Yosakoi (a Japanese dance), and flight attendants from ANA and Japan Airlines distribute drinks and fans, adding a sense of community to the festival.
How to get there
The easiest way to get to Haneda Shrine is by taking the Keikyū Airport Line to Ōtorii Station and walking up to 10 minutes.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.
