Ueno Summer Festival

The Ueno Natsu Matsuri (summer festival) consists of various events and festivities over an approximately 5-week-long period beginning on July 15th mostly taking place around Shinobazuno-ike Pond in the center of Ueno Park. There will be different events each day, which in the past included a paper lantern floating festival, an antiques market and an ice sculpture display.

The highlight of the festival is the Ueno Natsu Matsuri Parade which takes place along a 500m stretch of Chuo Dori starting from Ueno Park (July 22 starting at 17:30).  The “variety” parade will feature 38 teams of dancers with styles ranging from Yosakoi to samba.

(Greg Lane)