Jun 30, 2026
Do Japanese Summer Right: 10 Types of Festivals Not to Miss
Japanese summer festival season is upon us, and it’s easy to think that if you’ve been to one 'matsuri', you’ve been to them all. But nothing could be further from the truth. Each festival family has its own history, atmosphere, and way of celebrating the season; and exploring them reveals just how rich Japanese summer really is.
From ¹mikoshi festivals, where portable shrines are carried through the streets, to ²float festivals showcasing towering dashi, every celebration has its own personality. ³Lantern festivals glow through the night, while ⁴firework festivals light up the sky. ⁵Yosakoi festivals fill the streets with energetic dance, and ⁶Bon Odori festivals bring gentle, rhythmic summer dancing to communities across Japan. ⁷Tanabata festivals celebrate star‑crossed lovers with giant ornate streamers. ⁸Gion festivals highlight ancient traditions, while ⁹Yasaka festivals honor protective deities. Even ¹⁰Nebuta festivals bring bold artistry and illuminated warrior floats to summer nights.
These ten festival families are just the beginning - there are many more to explore. Japanese summer festivals aren't just one experience; they're dozens, each offering something special and unforgettable. What type of festival do you most enjoy?
Irish, Mom of 4, currently also living beside the In-Laws. 25+ years back and forth between Ireland and Japan! I also write on my personal website: insaitama.com
2 Comments
TonetoEdo
on Jul 6
A rare festival/ritual happens in my region - つく舞 tsukumai, an acrobatic dance ritual on a high pole. You can see it in parts of Chiba and Ibaraki Prefectures.
BigfamJapan
on Jul 6
@TonetoEdo I really love the rare festivals. That one sounds interesting. There was a really cool Mud Festival in Ageo City until three years ago. Unfortunately, they seem to have discontinued it. :-(