3 Tokyo Festivals in October 2024 | Private Tour Guide Japan
Credits: Pen ペン(Yosakoi dance)
Tokyo is not just a busy city of tall buildings and advanced technology but also a place rich in cultural traditions and lively festivals. October, especially, offers a diverse range of events that highlight Japan’s history and community bonds. Here are three festivals you should explore if you're on a Tokyo tour this October:
Tokyo Yosakoi | Yanaka Matsuri | The 64th Kanda Used Book Festival
TOKYO YOSAKOI (Oct. 12 - 13)
Tokyo Yosakoi is a vibrant festival held every October in Ikebukuro as part of the Fukuro Matsuri, known as the largest yosakoi event in the region. It features over 5,000 dancers from more than 100 teams, showcasing a lively dance style that blends traditional folk music with modern choreography. Performers wear colorful, often handmade costumes that highlight their cultural themes.
The festival spans two days, culminating in a grand finale where all teams perform together, creating a spectacular experience. It celebrates community and regional pride, with many teams representing local schools and organizations. Attendees can enjoy the energetic performances, delicious local food, and various festivities, making it a highlight of Tokyo's fall season.
Credits: Gotokyo.org
2. YANAKA MATSURI (OCT. 12 - 13)
The Yanaka Matsuri is a community festival held in Tokyo's Yanaka neighborhood. It features dance and music performances, a variety of food options, festival games, a bazaar with local crafts, and a stamp rally. A unique highlight is a Hula troupe performing in Yanaka Cemetery. While the main venue has moved to Hatsune no Mori square, other locations include Ueno Sakuragi Atari and the Former Yoshida Sake Store. The festival blends traditional and modern elements, offering a cultural experience in a historic setting.
Credits: Tokyo Cheapo
3. The 64th Kanda Used Book Festival
The Kanda Used Book Festival, held annually in Jinbōchō, Tokyo, is a major event for book lovers, featuring around a million secondhand books available for purchase along Yasukuni Dōri. The festival includes special sales of rare books at the Tokyo Used Book Hall, community events like the Zoshoin Festival for collecting book ownership stamps, and various talks with authors and literary experts. A convenient delivery service allows attendees to buy multiple books without the hassle of carrying them home. The festival celebrates the vibrant culture of used books in a community-oriented atmosphere.
October 2024 is set to be an exciting month in Tokyo, with these three festivals offering a rich range of experiences. Whether you’re wandering through the Kanda Used Book Festival, enjoying the local charm at Yanaka Matsuri, or dancing along to the vibrant rhythms of Tokyo Yosakoi, you’ll find yourself immersed in the city's lively culture. Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable fall adventure in Tokyo with your Private Tour Guide Japan!
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