What to do in Tokyo - Events Guide

Tokyo Sizzles with Music, Art, and Centuries-Old Rituals this July


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Kicking off Thursday, July 10, Tokyo is full of energy and unique events for listeners looking to make the most of their week and weekend. From city-wide music festivals to centuries-old rituals, there’s something for everyone in the heart of the metropolis.

Right now, Tokyo is hosting Inspire Tokyo, J-Wave’s city-wide festival uniting music, art, and culture under the theme “From Tokyo to the World.” Yoyogi Park, Shibuya, Harajuku, and Omotesando turn into bustling open-air stages with free outdoor concerts and art pop-ups. Friday through Sunday, enjoy live performances from artists like Tendre and Furui Riho, and if you’re feeling adventurous, check out the special paid events including Eiichi Ohtaki’s NIAGARA 50th Odyssey Live at Line Cube Shibuya. According to Tokyo Weekender, the festival runs through July 13, with the biggest shows happening this weekend.

For those who love the taste of tradition, the Ueno Summer Festival starts Friday, July 11, and goes all the way to August 11 at Ueno Park. As recommended by Tomogo Travel, this beloved festival features lantern-lit markets, antique stalls, street performances, and a stunning lotus-viewing walkway by Shinobazu Pond. Pick up a treat from the Ueno Ennichi street market and soak up the classic Tokyo matsuri atmosphere.

Friday through Sunday, Ikebukuro becomes an island paradise with the Tokyo Hula Festival. Metropolis Japan shares that nearly 4,000 dancers will bring the aloha spirit to Ikebukuro West Entrance Park, celebrating the deep ties between Japan and Hawaii with dazzling hula performances and tropical vibes. Admission is free, and it’s a great way to experience summer’s vibrant colors and music.

Sunday, July 13, don’t miss a living piece of Tokyo’s heritage at the Mizudome-no-mai ritual dance at Gonsho-ji Temple in Ota Ward. Metropolis Japan explains the centuries-old ritual is said to bring an end to the rainy season, complete with lion mask dances and a dramatic procession featuring young men blowing conch shells. It’s a truly rare insight into Tokyo’s folk traditions and is open to all.

This weekend, July 13 to 16, Yasukuni Shrine lights up with Mitama Matsuri, one of Tokyo’s largest Obon festivals. Time Out Tokyo highlights the 30,000 lanterns illuminating the shrine, nightly folk dance circles, and a wide range of food stalls. Monday features the giant Nebuta float parade and lively Awa Odori dance, while portable shrine processions add extra spectacle on Sunday evening and Tuesday. Festivities run each evening from 5 to 9:30pm.

If you’re seeking a cool, contemplative break from the summer heat, the Mori Art Museum hosts a major retrospective of acclaimed architect Sou Fujimoto’s work, open daily from 10am to 10pm.

There’s never been a more exciting week in Tokyo, from music and dance to traditional rituals and luminous summer nights. Thanks for tuning in and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an event. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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What to do in Tokyo - Events GuideBy Quiet. Please