What to do in Tokyo - Events Guide

Tokyo Sizzles with Pop Culture, Dance, and Fireworks Extravaganzas this August


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Tokyo is sizzling with excitement this second week of August, from pop culture extravaganzas to traditional dance festivals and vibrant summer fireworks. One Piece Day 25 lands at Tokyo Big Sight on August 9 and 10 and is a can’t-miss for anime fans. On Saturday, the exclusive One Piece pop-up shop is open from 3 to 5 pm for collectibles tied to the Elbaph Arc. The exhibit continues to 8 pm, and on Sunday, doors open as early as 9 am with stage events, fan games, cosplay, and the legendary One Piece Knowledge King Battle. Register online for the Base Crew lottery if you’re hunting for rare merch and experiences. The action unfolds in Ariake, in the South Exhibition Halls.

Dance takes over Shimokitazawa on August 9 and 10 with its annual Bon Odori festival according to Time Out Tokyo. You’re invited to join the rhythmic dance under strings of paper lanterns as Shimokitazawa’s own take on the Bon Festival fills the streets with music and community. No dance experience required—just follow the crowd and let the festival spirit move you.

For those wanting to soak up summer traditions, the Fukagawa Hachiman Matsuri lights up Tomioka Hachiman-gu Shrine on August 15 as noted by Metropolis Japan. This is Tokyo’s famously wet festival where mikoshi shrine-bearers splash crowds with water from 10 am to 5 pm. The dynamic procession, taiko drumming, and buoyant mood make it a highlight for anyone eager to experience classic Tokyo matsuri energy.

Asagaya’s Tanabata Matsuri continues this week in the Pearl Center shopping arcade, famous for its huge, creative papier-mâché decorations hanging overhead–think pop culture figures, glittering stars, and fantasy creatures according to Time Out Tokyo. The best time to stroll is dusk, when the arcade erupts in festive food and drink stalls offering Japanese treats.

Families should check out Doraemon Square at Roppongi Hills, where TV Asahi’s Summer Fes runs until August 24. Doraemon-themed activities and photo ops fill the area, delivering nostalgic fun for all ages, according to Tokyo Weekender.

Music lovers can catch LuckyFes 2025 from August 9 to 11 at Hitachi Seaside Park, just a ride from Tokyo. More than 100 artists across four stages keeps energy high. One-day passes are available for those just looking to tap into the festival vibe for a few hours.

If you’re after some classic Japanese summer spectacle, mark your calendar for the Jingu Gaien Fireworks Festival coming up on August 16, promising 10,000 fireworks and a lively crowd in central Tokyo according to the Japan Food Guide.

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What to do in Tokyo - Events GuideBy Inception Point Ai