Ueno Summer Festival

The Ueno Natsu Matsuri (summer festival) consists of various events and festivities over an approximately five-week-long period beginning in mid-July 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.  The “variety” parade will feature 38 teams of dancers with styles ranging from Yosakoi to samba. This year it’s taking place on Saturday the 20th of July from 1pm to 8.45pm.

(Greg Lane)