The beer gardens held at Tokyo Tower 1F Main Entrance and Foot Town Rooftop offer a truly special experience. You can drink and dine in an open-air atmosphere while gazing up at the iconic Tokyo Tower. A highlight is the Cho-Ten Highball available at the 1F Main Entrance, served in a chilled glass packed with ice. The super-carbonated highball, with hints of whiskey and lemon, is perfect for the hot summer. Only bars meeting Suntory's strict quality standards can offer this premium drink. Complement your highball with the photogenic Tokyo Tower Combo, featuring a crispy giant cod cutlet decorated with a ketchup Tokyo Tower. On the Foot Town Rooftop, enjoy an all-you-can-eat Genghis Khan (grilled lamb) feast.

Event Details
1F Main Entrance
TOKYO TOWER CHO-TEN HIGHBALL GARDEN
・Location: Tokyo Tower 1F Main Entrance
・Dates: April 18, 2024 – October 6, 2024
・Hours: 4 PM – 10 PM (Saturday, Sunday, and holidays: 12 PM – 10 PM, last order at 9:30 PM)

Foot Town Rooftop
TOKYO TOWER ROOF TOP HIGHBALL GARDEN
・Location: Tokyo Tower Foot Town Rooftop
・Dates: April 11, 2024 – October 14, 2024 (public holiday)
・Hours: 5 PM – 9:30 PM (last order at 9 PM)
・Admission: All-you-can-eat and drink for 120 minutes, Adults (20 years and older) 5,800 yen (tax included), Different rates apply for minors

Tokyo Skytree is hosting its first-ever collaboration event with the popular TV anime Pokémon. The event features exclusive displays and photo spots with characters in the 450m high Tembo Galleria. Limited-edition merchandise is available at the SKYTREE SHOP on the first floor. Additionally, the SKYTREE ROUND THEATER® on the 350m high Tembo Deck will screen special videos, and the tower will be illuminated with special Pokémon-themed lighting. There will also be Captain Pikachu greetings on the first-floor group area (free greeting participation tickets required; details on the official website).

Event Details
・Location: Tokyo Skytree Tembo Deck, Tembo Galleria, 1st Floor
・Dates: June 25, 2024 – September 24, 2024
・Hours: Varies by season, check the official website for details
・Admission: Set ticket (Tembo Deck + Tembo Galleria) Adults (18 and older) 2,700 yen (3,000 yen on holidays), Tembo Deck only Adults 1,800 yen (2,000 yen on holidays), different rates apply for those 17 and younger

Tokyo Disneyland is offering a variety of fun, water-soaked programs perfect for summer. The highlight is "Baymax's Mission: Cool Down," where Baymax, the care robot, spreads cool mist along the parade route. Toontown transforms into the "Soaking Wet Toontown," featuring cool mist and waterfall-like water sprays. Additionally, Tokyo DisneySea's Aquatopia offers a special version where you can get soaked while enjoying the unpredictable movements of the water vehicles.

Both parks will also host "Soaking Wet Time," where cast members equipped with barrels will spray cool mist on visitors. Enjoy refreshing treats like new flavored shaved ice, cold churros, and chilled noodles to beat the summer heat.

Event Details
・Location: Tokyo Disneyland / Tokyo DisneySea
・Dates: July 2, 2024 – September 18, 2024
・Hours: Varies by season, check the official website for details
・Admission: Varies by season, check the official website for details
・Phone Number: 0570-00-8632 (Navi Dial)

The NAKED "OMATSURI" event is transforming Marunouchi, Tokyo into a cutting-edge summer festival venue for the first time this summer! The event, NAKED "OMATSURI" Eat, Play, and Dance!, will be held at the Marunouchi Building Hall from July 26 to August 16, 2024. This immersive event combines the latest technology with the fun of traditional Japanese festivals, offering a unique experience. Attendees can enjoy digital art experiences, participate in festivals from all over Japan, and take commemorative photos. Highlights include the AI BIG DARUMA art object that interacts with visitors during Bon dance time, digital shooting galleries where you can win toppings for yakisoba, and stalls offering Daruma-patterned candy apples and traditional Japanese shaved ice. This urban summer festival promises an innovative and enjoyable experience.

Event Details
・Location: Marunouchi Building Hall
・Dates: July 26 – August 16, 2024
・Hours: July 26: 5 PM – 10 PM (Last admission at 9:30 PM), August 16: 11 AM – 2 PM (Last admission at 1:30 PM), Other Dates: 11 AM – 10 PM (Last admission at 9:30 PM)
・Admission: Mon – Thu: Early Bird: 3,800 yen (Junior high and above), 3,400 yen (Elementary school), Regular: 3,900 yen (Junior high and above), 3,500 yen (Elementary school). Fri – Sun & Holidays: Early Bird: 3,900 yen (Junior high and above), 3,500 yen (Elementary school), Regular: 4,000 yen (Junior high and above), 3,700 yen (Elementary school).

The Shitamachi Tanabata Festival is an annual event held by the local shopping district on Kappabashi Hon-dori, stretching from Asakusa to Ueno. The approximately 1.2 km street from Kokusai-dori to Showa-dori is adorned with vibrant Tanabata decorations, creating a festive atmosphere. The main events are parades and street performances on July 6 and 7. On July 6, the festivities kick off with an opening ceremony at 1 PM, featuring a parade by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police motorcycle squad and local elementary school brass bands. On July 7, the famous Awa Odori from Tokushima, one of Japan's three major Bon dances, and Sado Okesa folk dance from Niigata's Sado Island will be performed, filling the streets with lively energy.

Kappabashi Hon-dori becomes a pedestrian zone with food stalls on both days. Bamboo branches are set up throughout the shopping district for visitors to write their wishes on tanzaku and tie them to the branches (July 4 – 8, 10 AM – 7 PM). This event offers a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Event Details
・Location: Kappabashi Hon-dori
・Main Event Dates: July 6 – 7, 2024
・Hours: 10 AM – 7 PM
・Tanabata Decorations: July 4 – 8, 2024
・Admission: Free

In Japan, fireworks festivals are held across the country from July to September, and the Adachi Fireworks Festival kicks off the season in Tokyo. This spectacular event features approximately 13,000 fireworks launched over one hour, delivering an exhilarating and non-stop display. The show is divided into five segments, including musical fireworks, a 250m wide Niagara Falls effect, lasers, and a grand finale with a large star mine. The event takes place along the Arakawa River (between the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line railway bridge and Nishiarai Bridge). Viewing from the relatively less crowded Nishiarai side of the riverbank is recommended. Paid viewing seats are available, with sales from June 22, 2024, 10 AM to July 19, 2024, 11:59 PM, or until sold out. Check the official website for details.

Event Details
・Location: Arakawa Riverbank (between Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line railway bridge and Nishiarai Bridge)
・Date: July 20, 2024 (canceled in case of severe weather)
・Time: 7:20 PM – 8:20 PM
・Admission: Free (Paid viewing seats available from 5,000 yen)

The 50th Kagurazaka Festival, rich in Edo period charm, takes place in various locations throughout the area. One highlight is the Hozuki Market at Bishamonten Zenkokuji Temple, where vibrant red hozuki (Chinese lantern plants) are sold. Many food and specialty stalls from nearby restaurants and shops will also be set up, attracting visitors in yukata. Another major attraction is the Awa Odori dance, where over 20 groups perform on the main street, Kagurazaka Dori. Additionally, the "Yukata Concierge" service offers guided tours of the area's alleyways and highlights by guides in yukata (Japanese only, first 100 participants, 1,000 yen, registration at Kagurazaka Commons, supported by NPO Ikina Machizukuri Club).

At Bishamonten Zenkokuji Temple, a traditional ritual called "Horoku Flame" will be held, where participants place a ceramic plate on their head and burn mugwort on top to pray for relief from the summer heat and good health (participation fee: 3,000 yen).

Event Details
・Location: Kagurazaka 1-chome to Kagurazaka Dori area, Shinjuku Ward
・Dates and Times:
・Hozuki Market: July 24 – 25, 2024, 5 PM – 9 PM
・Hozuki Market Stalls: July 24 – 25, 2024, 5 PM – 9 PM
・Bishamonten Children's Festival: July 24 – 25, 2024, 5 PM – around 8 PM
・Yukata Concierge: July 24 – 25, 2024, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
・Awa Odori Dance: July 26, 2024, 7 PM – 9 PM; July 27, 2024, 6 PM – 7 PM (Children's Awa Odori), 7 PM – 9 PM
・Bishamonten Zenkokuji Temple Horoku Flame: July 25, 2024, 3 PM and 5 PM
・Admission: Free (additional fees may apply for certain events)

The Mitama Festival, held at Yasukuni Shrine since 1947, is a summer event to honor the spirits of the war dead. Each year, the shrine attracts numerous visitors, and the grounds are adorned with over 30,000 "Mitamashi" (lanterns) and "Kakebonbori" (hanging paper lanterns) inscribed by notable figures, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Every evening, a ritual ceremony is held at the main hall. Additionally, there is a special night visit to the "Chutei" (inner courtyard), which is usually off-limits to the public. The festival features a variety of performances, including brass band parades, mikoshi (portable shrine) processions, Aomori Nebuta, and Awa Odori dances. Food trucks are set up in the outer garden, and a Bon Odori dance is held nightly around the statue of Masujiro Omura, open for everyone to join. Souvenirs such as Mitama Festival fans (2,800 yen) and original hand towels (1,430 yen and up) are available at various stalls within the shrine grounds.

Event Details
・Location: Yasukuni Shrine
・Dates: July 13 – 16, 2024
・Hours: 6 AM – 9:30 PM (registration for participating in rituals ends at 4:30 PM)
・Admission: Free

The Sumida River Fireworks Festival is a historic event that is also broadcast live on television. Its predecessor, "Ryogoku Fireworks," is considered Japan's oldest fireworks display, dating back to 1733 during the Edo period. This renowned festival attracts approximately one million spectators from Tokyo and beyond.

There are two main viewing areas. At the first site, downstream from Sakura Bridge to upstream of Kototoi Bridge, about 9,350 fireworks will be launched. At the second site, downstream from Komagata Bridge to upstream of Umaya Bridge, around 10,650 fireworks will light up the sky.

The first site will also host a fireworks competition featuring top pyrotechnic companies associated with the historic Ryogoku Fireworks and those who have excelled in major fireworks festivals across Japan. Since there are no designated seating areas along the Sumida River, spectators typically enjoy the fireworks from nearby bridges and surrounding streets.

Event Details
・Location: Sumida River
・Date: July 27, 2024
・Time: 7 PM – 8:30 PM (canceled in case of severe weather)
・Admission: Free

On July 9 and 10, Asakusa hosts the Hozuki Market, a beloved summer tradition. These days are also known as "Shimanrokusen-nichi Fair," a special occasion where visiting the temple is said to grant the same benefits as visiting for 46,000 days (about 126 years). Asakusa Temple designates 12 such merit days each year, with July 10 being the most significant.

During these two days, about 100 stalls selling hozuki (Chinese lantern plants) line the grounds of Asakusa Temple. Hozuki has been used in folk medicine and is sold alongside wind chimes, whose soothing sounds fill the air. The lively shouts of vendors selling hozuki and the interactions between them and customers add to the festive atmosphere.

The temple grounds also feature various food stalls on both days. Additionally, a special triangular protective amulet called "Kaminari Yoke Fuda" is available exclusively on July 9 and 10.

Event Details
・Location: Asakusa Temple
・Dates: July 9 – 10, 2024
・Hours: Around 9 AM – 9 PM
・Admission: Free

Morning glories, with their spreading shape, are considered auspicious and believed to bring good health during the hot summer, as they were once used as medicinal plants. The flower's language, "bonds of affection," is derived from its twining vines, making it a popular symbol for improving love luck. The Iriya Morning Glory Festival, held around Iriya Kishimojin, features 30-40 morning glory stalls starting early around 5 AM. Some plants come with prayers or protective amulets. Festival-exclusive goods are also available during the three-day event. The market operates from early morning around 6 AM until late at night (hours vary by shop). On sunny days, food stalls and fair booths open from around midday and stay busy until about 10 PM.

Event Details
・Location: Around Iriya Kishimojin
・Dates: July 6 – 8, 2024
・Hours: Early morning around 6 AM to late night (varies by shop), food stalls from midday
・Admission: Free

The Hakone Tozan Railway, running between Hakone-Yumoto Station and Gora Station in about 40 minutes, offers a scenic ride along hydrangea blooms from mid-June. Known as the "Hydrangea Train," this route features around 10,000 hydrangea bushes, including varieties like purple and pink Western hydrangeas and white Annabelle hydrangeas. The railway climbs over 400 meters in elevation from Hakone-Yumoto to Gora, allowing for a prolonged viewing period as the flowers bloom at different altitudes. The close proximity of the flowers to the train is a unique feature of the Hakone Tozan Railway. Night-time illuminations are also held, with the train's interior lights dimmed and special announcements (in Japanese only) made, allowing passengers to enjoy the hydrangeas at a leisurely pace.

Event Details
・Location: Hakone Tozan Railway (Hakone-Yumoto Station)
・Dates: Typical viewing period from mid-June to early July
・Admission: Free

Hase-dera, located about a 5-minute walk from Enoden's Hase Station, is known as the "Temple of Flowers" due to its year-round blooms. Among its many floral attractions, the hydrangeas that bloom from late May to late June are particularly famous. The temple grounds feature over 2,500 hydrangea plants, comprising more than 40 varieties that differ in color, shape, and bloom time. A scenic walking path offers views of hydrangeas covering the hillside. If it's not crowded, the walk takes about 10 minutes. From the top, visitors can enjoy views of Sagami Bay and the town of Hase. During the peak bloom period, in addition to the regular admission ticket, an "Ajisai Path Ticket" is required (details on the official website). The temple showcases a variety of hydrangeas, including Western hydrangeas, lacecap hydrangeas, mountain hydrangeas, and white Annabelles near the path entrance. Unique to Hase-dera are hydrangeas like "Kamakura," named by the temple, and new varieties such as "Hase no Shiosai" and "Hase no Inori," which can only be seen here.

Event Details
・Location: Hase-dera
・Dates: Typical viewing period from late May to early July
・Hours: 8 AM – 4:30 PM (temple closes at 5 PM), April to June 8 AM – 5 PM (temple closes at 5:30 PM)
・Admission: 400 yen; during the peak bloom period, an additional "Ajisai Path Ticket" (500 yen for elementary school students and older) is required

The Tokyo Bay Summer Night Cruise, organized by Tokai Kisen Co., Ltd., offers a delightful evening on the 6,000-ton class passenger ship "Salvia Maru." Departing from Takeshiba Pier at 7:15 PM, the cruise circles around Tokyo Bay's scenic spots before returning to Takeshiba Pier at 9:00 PM. The cruise includes commentary on Tokyo Bay's beautiful night views by a cruising navigator. Guests can enjoy a variety of food options such as yakisoba, fried mochi, and churros. There are also onboard events like mystery-solving and music performances, ensuring fun for both adults and children.

Last summer, about 40% of passengers boarded in yukata, and there is a yukata discount (1,000 yen off, subject to conditions and dates; check the official website for details). A "Tokyo Bay Summer Night Cruise Official Yukata Shop" is also open inside the Takeshiba Passenger Ship Terminal, a 2-minute walk from the boarding area.

Event Details
・Location: Tokyo Bay, boarding at Takeshiba Pier
・Dates: July 5, 2024 – September 23, 2024
・Hours: Departure from Takeshiba Pier at 7:15 PM
・Admission: 2,000 yen (500 yen for elementary school students)
・Special opening discount from July 5 to 11: Adults 1,000 yen, Adults in yukata 500 yen (WEB reservation only; see website for details)

Held once or twice a month at Yurakucho's Tokyo International Forum, this is Japan's largest outdoor antique market. Launched in September 2003 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the opening of Edo, the market now takes place on the first and third Sundays of each month. Around 250 vendors offer a wide range of items, from fine antiques and traditional Japanese crafts to lifestyle antiques. The selection is incredibly diverse, featuring everything from 300-year-old Japanese antiques to recent American vintage items. This market provides a unique opportunity to experience and appreciate Japanese history and culture. Its convenient location, just across the crosswalk from Yurakucho Station and a 5-minute walk from Tokyo Station, adds to its appeal.

Event Details
・Location: Yurakucho, Tokyo International Forum
・Dates: July 7 and 21, 2024 (canceled in case of rain)
・Hours: 9 AM – 4 PM
・Admission: Free
*Schedule is subject to change.

Gathering 3,000 creators from across Japan, the 15th Handmade in Japan Fes is a beloved event attracting over 50,000 visitors, making it one of Japan's largest creator festivals. The market showcases original works such as fashion items like accessories and bags, interior decor, art, pottery, and handicrafts. Additionally, there are about 70 crafting workshops led by traditional artisans and popular creators, live performances by noteworthy artists, and a food area featuring handmade delicacies from around Japan.

A highlight of the festival is the special exhibition in the entrance atrium themed "NIPPON Summer." This exhibition features firework-inspired artworks and displays made from materials recycled from famous Japanese summer festivals like Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, Kochi Yosakoi Matsuri, and Akita Kanto Matsuri.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience creativity with all your senses at this vibrant festival!

Event Details
・Location: Tokyo Big Sight West Halls 1 & 2
・Dates: July 20 – 21, 2024
・Hours: 11 AM – 7 PM
・Admission: Advance tickets 1,300 yen (1,500 yen on the day; two-day tickets also available)

July is filled with events and festivities that showcase the beauty of Japanese summer, such as Morning Glory Markets, Hozuki Markets, Tanabata Festivals, and fireworks displays. The rainy season in the Kanto region typically ends around July 19. Before the rainy season ends, the weather can be unpredictable and humid, so please take care with your clothing and health while enjoying your sightseeing.

(The information in this article is as of June 2024. Please check the official websites for the latest updates.)