Tokyo Events in July 2026: Festivals, Fireworks, and More

The Beginning of Summer in Tokyo

July signals the arrival of peak festival season, with a spectacular lineup of annual events taking place across Tokyo.

As the humid days give way to cooler evenings, the city’s historic neighborhoods, shrines, and temple grounds come alive with vibrant night markets, rhythmic taiko drumming, and glowing lanterns.

Discover the best annual festivals and events taking place in Tokyo in July 2026 to plan your perfect summer itinerary.

• Table of Contents
• 1. Sumida River Fireworks Festival (July 25)
• 2. Chidorigafuchi Floating Lantern Festival 2026 (July 22 - 23)
• 3. Mitama Matsuri (July 13–16)
• 4. Kagurazaka Matsuri and Awa Odori (Late July)
• 5. Tachikawa Festival Showa Memorial Park Fireworks (Late July)
• 6. Tsukiji Honganji Bon Dance Festival (July 29 - August 1)
• 7. Shitamachi Tanabata Matsuri (Early July)

1. Sumida River Fireworks Festival (July 25)

The Sumida River Fireworks Festival is an iconic annual display held near Asakusa, Tokyo's historic district, on the last Saturday of July.

On July 25, 2026, visitors can watch over 20,000 dazzling fireworks burst into the night sky, beautifully framing Tokyo Skytree in a sea of brilliant color.

The festival features massive, breathtaking displays launched from two river locations, including rapid-fire starmines and an exciting fireworks competition.

We recommend arriving early to find a good vantage point. Otherwise, you can book a scenic river cruise to enjoy this historic 400-year-old tradition comfortably while taking in magnificent, glowing views of the city.

2. Chidorigafuchi Floating Lantern Festival 2026 (July 22 - 23)

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Transforming the iconic Imperial Palace moat into a magical summer wonderland, the Chidorigafuchi Floating Lantern Festival is a breathtaking event held on July 22 and 23, 2026.

Visitors can watch 2,000 glowing lanterns float across the dark water from 19:00 to 20:00, creating a serene landscape straight out of a storybook.

Each lantern is inscribed with handwritten messages of hope and gratitude. Viewing from the surrounding pathways is completely free.

For those looking to participate, standard lanterns must be pre-purchased online in advance, as there are no same-day sales available at the venue.

3. Mitama Matsuri (July 13–16)

Held at Yasukuni Shrine from July 13 to 16, the Mitama Festival is one of Tokyo's most visually spectacular and deeply historic mid-summer lantern festivals.

Founded in 1947 to honor fallen soldiers, the main approach to the shrine is beautifully illuminated by more than 30,000 glowing yellow lanterns.

Throughout the four-day event, a massive turnout of locals dressed up for summer can experience intense Taiko drumming, traditional Bon Odori and Awa dancing, kappore street performances, and an authentic Nebuta float parade from Aomori.

Nighttime visitors are also granted rare access to the normally restricted inner courtyard. While standard festival stalls are absent, a selection of local food trucks will be on-site.

4. Kagurazaka Matsuri and Awa Odori (Late July)

Bringing a rush of summer energy to a historic Shinjuku neighborhood, the Kagurazaka Festival lights up the city from July 24 to 26, 2026.

The district’s charming, sloping streets come alive with dynamic Awa Odori dancing and a traditional hozuki (ground cherry) market selling colorful potted plants and hosting children's games.

At Bishamonten Zenkokuji Temple, visitors can witness or experience houroku-kyu, a unique mid-summer moxibustion health ritual performed directly on the head.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, popular local Kagurazaka eateries open outdoor stalls along the roads, allowing everyone to casually sample premium neighborhood dishes right on the street.

5. Tachikawa Festival Showa Memorial Park Fireworks (Late July)

Photo courtesy of PRTimes

Held in Tachikawa, approximately 30 minutes from Shinjuku, the Tachikawa Festival Showa Memorial Park Fireworks is an annual firework display that happens at the end of each July.

In 2026, visitors can watch 5,000 fireworks soar up to 400 meters up into the sky with massive fireworks, rapid-fire starmines, and award-winning artisan shells.

The festival has been running since 1954 and is a great way to enjoy fireworks comfortably due to Showa Memorial Park's sprawling fields.

If you plan to enjoy this event, arrive early at the Minna no Harappa field to find a good spot, and place your mat so you can sit back and enjoy the fireworks. You can also book paid seating to skip the hassle of saving a spot and get the absolute best views of the show.

6. Tsukiji Honganji Bon Dance Festival (July 29 - August 1)

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The Tsukiji Honganji Summer Bon Odori Festival offers an unforgettable mix of culture and cuisine, framed by the striking, ancient Indian-inspired architecture of a landmark Buddhist temple.

Running for four days from July 29 to August 1, 2026, the temple grounds completely transform into a lively street fair packed with legendary food stalls from the neighboring Tsukiji Outer Market.

Under rings of glowing paper lanterns, massive crowds of locals and travelers form dance circles seven to eight layers deep around the central stage. The simple, repetitive steps driven by rhythmic taiko drumming make it incredibly welcoming for newcomers to dive straight into the summer fun.

7. Shitamachi Tanabata Matsuri (Early July)

Celebrating the Star Festival, the Shitamachi Tanabata Festival brings an incredible wave of energy to the area from July 3 to July 7, 2026.

The streets bridging Ueno and Asakusa (specifically Kappabashi Dougu Street) are decked out in massive, colorful paper streamers, ornaments, unique Kappa-themed displays, and bamboo branches where people tie their written wishes.

The weekend features powerful highlights like the Ecchu Owara Bushi dance parade accompanied by traditional instruments, alongside fair stalls and a food market. As evening approaches, the lit-up decorations completely transform the neighborhood into a glowing spectacle.

Enjoy Tokyo's July Festivals to the Fullest!

Tokyo’s July festivals offer an unforgettable look into the heart of the city's seasonal celebrations. To truly make the most of your summer journey, we highly recommend renting a traditional yukata (casual summer kimono) to fully immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.

Make sure to arrive early at major venues to secure the best viewing spots, carry plenty of cash for the local food stalls, and stay hydrated during the humid summer evenings.

Embrace the energy, follow the music, and enjoy these incredible mid-summer memories!