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What to Do in Tokyo in July 2023: Roundup of Tokyo Area Events, Summer Festivals, Fireworks & More

What to Do in Tokyo in July 2023: Roundup of Tokyo Area Events, Summer Festivals, Fireworks & More

Date published: 27 June 2023

In July, Japan comes alive with an array of exciting summer events. From festivals lasting into the cool evenings, to wind chime festivals and fireworks displays, there’s something for everyone! Museums and galleries also host a number of special exhibitions right before summer vacation.

Here, we would like to introduce some of these fascinating exhibitions, including summer cruises, historical fireworks festivals, and a wealth of other fun festivities that are sure to immerse you in the essence of summer in Japan!

Sunshine Aquarium Moudoku-ten Deadly Poison Exhibition ReMix (Toshima, Tokyo)

Sunshine Aquarium Moudoku-ten Deadly Poison Exhibition ReMix (Toshima, Tokyo)

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Sunshine Aquarium's special exhibition, Moudoku-ten, which debuted in 2013. During a 2022 commemorative event, the Mokudoku Exhibition ReMix earned the most votes in the first Special Exhibit General Election as the exhibit respondents wanted to see again the most.

This year's exhibition showcases 25 species of poisonous creatures, many of which were popular at the previous two installations. Alongside poisonous creatures from the rivers and sea, the exhibit also highlights poisonous plants that bear an uncanny resemblance to everyday food, and poisonous creatures lurking within our daily surroundings. In addition, informative panels provide insights into these creatures, their poisonous parts, and the type of poison they possess, as well as a poison analysis, based on the original Poison Levels established by the Sunshine Aquarium (ranging from slightly poisonous to fatal).

Another event highlight is the ‘Skunk Odor Experience Corner’, where a skilled perfumer who has actually encountered a skunk's secretions firsthand, has crafted a controlled replica of the pungent skunk odor.

Tickets including original exhibition-inspired ‘Poisonish Candy’ also available for purchase.

Event Details
・Venue: Sunshine City, Sunshine Aquarium, Special Exhibition Hall
・Period: March 17 - November 5, 2023
・Hours: 9:30 AM - 9:00 PM
*Last admission one hour before closing (Subject to change)
・Phone: 03-3989-3466
・Price:
-Regular admission, Ticket only: 600 yen
-Ticket + Poisonish Candy: 900 yen
-200 yen discount for Aquarium visitors.
・Closed: Open daily during exhibition period

Case Closed: A Celestial City Where Heroes Gather (Sunshine City, Toshima, Tokyo)

Case Closed: A Celestial City Where Heroes Gather (Sunshine City, Toshima, Tokyo)

There will also be several Case Closed collaboration events held in Sunshine City to coincide with the theatrical release of ‘Case Closed: Black Iron Submarine’. The festivities will span several locations within Sunshine City, including Sunshine 60 Observatory Tembo Park, (recently opened April 18), Sunshine Aquarium, and Specialty Store Alpa Sky Restaurant.

The main venue, Sunshine 60 Observation Deck Tembo Park, will hold a riddle-solving rally until July 9 (additional 500 yen participation fee applies). The venue also offers photo spots and exclusive limited-edition goods, such as Aurora acrylic stands and postcards. Additionally, visitors to Specialty Store Alpa and Sky Restaurant may also receive a limited original coaster - just take a look at the menu for details!

Event Details
・Venues: Sunshine City 60 Observation Deck, Tembo Park, Sunshine Aquarium, Specialty Store Alpa, Sky Restaurant, Fountain Plaza, Sunshine City Prince Hotel
・Period: April 28-July 9, 2023
・Hours: Varies by facility
・Phone: 03-3989-3331
・Admission: Free 
*Admission fee required for Sunshine 60 Observation Deck Tembo Park and Sunshine Aquarium events.
*Fees apply for riddle rally at Sunshine 60 Observation Deck Tembo Park.
・Closed: Open daily

Tokyo Tower Highball Garden: Refreshing Highball Experience with a Stunning View (Minato, Tokyo)

Tokyo Tower Highball Garden: Refreshing Highball Experience with a Stunning View (Minato, Tokyo)

Indulge in a delightful beer garden event hosted at Tokyo Tower, where guests can enjoy highballs and delectable dishes carefully crafted to complement them. The event is presented by Suntory, a Japanese company known for their Western-style alcohol, beer, and soft drinks.

The event will be held at two locations: on the rooftop of FootTown, which houses a variety of restaurants, cafes, and a food court, and before the first floor main entrance. both of which have their own unique characteristics. Each venue boasts its own unique characteristics, offering guests diverse experiences. The FootTown Rooftop offers an all-you-can-eat-and-drink feast of jingisukan (grilled lamb). A wide variety of drinks are also available, including Jim Beam highballs, draft beer, as well as other highballs.

The Cho-ten Highball, crafted according to Suntory's strict quality standards, is served at the front entrance on the first floor. Here, you'll also find the exclusive Tokyo Tower Highball, a blood orange Jim Beam highball inspired by the captivating lights of the Tokyo Tower. The restaurant also offers a menu of popular izakaya treats, including the Cho-ten Combo, with fried chicken and crispy potatoes, and a sweet-and-spicy Old-fashioned Sauce Yakisoba.

Event Details
・TOKYO TOWER "ROOF TOP" HIGHBALL GARDEN
・Venue: Tokyo Tower Foot Town Rooftop
・Period: April 13th - October 9th, 2023
・Hours: 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM (Last order at 9:00 PM)
・Phone: 050-3627-4803 (Phone reception hours: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM)
・Price: 2-hour all-you-can-eat and all-you-can-drink for adults at 5,500 yen (including tax)

・TOKYO TOWER "CHO-TEN" HIGHBALL GARDEN
・Venue: Tokyo Tower 1F Main Entrance
・Period: April 20th - October 1st, 2023
・Hours: 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Last order at 9:30 PM)
・Phone: 080-9271-5533 (Phone reception hours: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM)

Tokyo Disney Resort® 40th Anniversary "Dream Go Round" (Urayasu City, Chiba Prefecture)

©Disney (Image photo)
©Disney (Image photo)

This year, Tokyo Disney Resort® is proud to commemorate its 40th anniversary with the special event, Tokyo Disney Resort 40th Anniversary Dream-Go-Round. As part of the festivities, park will be adorned with special 40th-anniversary decorations, and limited-edition merch, while visitors can delight in limited-edition merchandise and special menus.

In addition, the Tokyo Disneyland® daytime parade will make a much-awaited return after a five-year hiatus, adding to the celebration. Over at Tokyo DisneySea®, guests can enjoy the waterfront meet and greet event, ‘Let's Celebrate with Colors’, featuring all your favorite Disney friends aboard a boat! So come join the Disney crowd as they celebrate a wonderful year of connection and togetherness!

Event Details
・Venue: Tokyo Disney Resort®
・Period: April 15, 2023 - March 31, 2024
・Hours: Varies by season (see official website)
・Price: Varies by season (see official website)
・Closed: Open year round
・Phone: 0570-00-8632 (Navidial)

Tokyo Disney Resort® Summer Get Soaked Program (Urayasu, Chiba)

©Disney (Image is for illustration purposes only)
©Disney (Image is for illustration purposes only)

Tokyo Disney Resort® is also set to offer a range of exciting ‘Get Soaked’ Programs during the two-month period from July 4 to September 6, to help guests beat the summer heat.

Tokyo Disneyland® invites visitors to experience the fun-filled 'Splash Mountain Get Soaked MAX' event, taking place at the ever-popular Splash Mountain attraction. This installment includes the summer-limited addition of a water-splashing mechanism for a thrilling combination of refreshment and excitement!

During the parade, held three times daily, guests will have the chance to experience the exciting 'Baymax Mission: Cool Down'. Baymax, the care robot from the Disney movie, will appear on a parade float, actively monitoring spectators' "energy levels". When he detects an area of significantly low energy, the float will come to a stop as guests are pleasantly surprised with a refreshing spritz!

Both parks also offer a “Cool-Down Time”, in which Cast Members appear with barrels of water on their backs, walking around and spraying a cool mist on visitors upon request for relief from the summer heat. Shaved ice, soft-serve ice cream, and other refreshing summer treats will also be available.

This summer, Tokyo DisneySea® will also host a variety of entertainment programs, providing the opportunity to meet all seven beloved characters from Duffy & Friends for the first time.

So take a trip to Tokyo Disney Resort®, and enjoy summer to the fullest!

Event Details
・Venue: Tokyo Disney Resort®
・Period: July 4 - September 6, 2023
・Hours: Varies by season (see official website)
・Admission: Varies by season (see official website)
・Closed: Open year round
・Phone: 0570-00-8632 (Navidial)

THE ROOF SHIBUYA SKY (Shibuya, Tokyo)

THE ROOF SHIBUYA SKY (Shibuya, Tokyo)

Located on the 14th, 45th, 46th floors, and the rooftop of Shibuya Scramble Square, a large complex directly connected to Shibuya Station, is the observation facility called "SHIBUYA SKY." Within this remarkable space lies a limited-time rooftop bar called "THE ROOF SHIBUYA SKY."

The allure of this rooftop bar lies in its exceptional location, offering panoramic views of Tokyo's iconic skyscrapers, including Tokyo Skytree®, from Shibuya's highest point.

The drink selection is equally enticing. Exclusively available at THE ROOF SHIBUYA SKY are two craft beers crafted in collaboration with Y.Y.G. Brewery, an urban brewery located in Shibuya's vibrant Yoyogi area. Particularly fascinating is the "MAGIC HOUR -Pale Ale-," a beer that captures the ever-changing hues of the sky during the magical hour. With its refreshing citrus-like bitterness and a touch of purple infused by butterfly pea flower, it transforms into a unique drink resembling a deep crimson sunset when lemon juice is added.

Seating options include comfortable sofas and standing tables. It's important to note that a ticket is required for sofa seating. Two ticket options are available: "THE ROOF SEAT & 2 DRINKS SET" (4,900 yen per person) includes two drinks (excluding champagne) and one snack, and "THE ROOF SEAT & CHAMPAGNE SET" (5,900 yen per person) features a mini bottle of champagne and one snack (both options include the SHIBUYA SKY admission ticket and service charge).

For those who prefer ordering from the à la carte menu, standing tables are available. Indulge in a delightful evening at this open-air rooftop bar, offering a liberating ambiance and breathtaking vistas of Shibuya.

Event Details
・Venue: SKY STAGE, Rooftop Observation Space at Shibuya Scramble Square
・Period: April 28th - November 30th, 2023
・Hours: 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Last order at 9:30 PM), 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM (August only)

Hello Kitty in Sweet Gallery (Shinjuku, Tokyo)

Hello Kitty in Sweet Gallery (Shinjuku, Tokyo)

Delight in a charming collaboration between Hilton Tokyo and Hello Kitty at the Marble Lounge on the 1st floor, where they proudly present the "Hello Kitty in Sweets Gallery" buffet. Curated by Osamu Harita, the Executive Pastry Chef of Hilton Tokyo, this extraordinary menu showcases an array of sweets and pastas inspired by the beloved Hello Kitty.

Prepare for an overload of cuteness as you indulge in delightful treats like the Hello Kitty-shaped cake, the "Hello Kitty in Colorful Boat" cupcake adorned with marshmallows and Hello Kitty face-shaped chocolates, and the "Bouquet for You" jelly made with flower syrup and fruit. With a total of 25 adorable sweet creations, there's something to satisfy every palate. To accompany the sweets, savor a selection of eight premium teas from the esteemed German brand Ronnefeldt.

For those craving more than just sweets, the menu also features nine delectable meal options, including enticing dishes like "Roast Pork with Apple Sauce" and "Lemon Zucchini Pasta." The restaurant itself is adorned with vibrant Hello Kitty artwork, enveloping you in the enchanting world of this beloved character. To secure your spot, make reservations through the official website and prepare for a whimsical culinary experience like no other.

Event Details
・Venue: Hilton Tokyo 1F Marble Lounge
・Period: May 12 - August 31, 2023
・Hours: 2:30 PM - 5:00 PM
・Price: 5,500 yen (5,900 yen on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, including tax and service charge)
・Closed: Open daily during the event
・Phone: 03-3344-5111

  • Hilton Tokyo
    • Address 6-6-2 Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023
      View Map
    • Nearest Station Tochomae Station (Toei Oedo Line)

    Vacancy search, reservation

    Check with our partner site as the latest rates, rate details, and guest room requirements may vary.

Hello Kitty, My Melody, and Kuromi's Summer Buffet Party (Hachioji, Tokyo)

Hello Kitty, My Melody, and Kuromi's Summer Buffet Party (Hachioji, Tokyo)

Keio Plaza Hotel Hachioji, is conveniently located in Hachioji, just 40 minutes from Shinjuku via the JR Chuo Line commuter rapid train. And this summer, they proudly present the "Hello Kitty, My Melody, and Kuromi's Summer Buffet Party".

Visitors can indulge in a variety of limited-time only sweets, including black currant mousse and chocolate ganache cookie sandwiches, inspired by Kuromi's thematic purple hue. Other treats include apple tarts accented with Hello Kitty ribbons, and a My Melody almond gateau, only available at dinner time.

But there’s more than just sweets! Guests can enjoy a tempting selection of side dishes, too, including Hello Kitty cream-filled fruit sandwiches, inari sushi roast beef, aqua pazza, and special curry.

Hachioji is just 5 minutes by train from Mt. Takao, so we recommend stopping by on the way to or from a hike!

Event Details
Venue: Keio Plaza Hotel Hachioji (2F), Restaurant Le Clair
Period: June 1 - August 31, 2023
Hours:
Lunch:
Weekdays: 11:30 AM - 3:30 PM (105 minutes)
Weekends/Holidays:
Part One: 11:30 AM -1:15 PM
Part Two: 1:30 PM - 3:15 PM

Dinner:
Friday: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM (105 minutes)
Weekends/Holidays:
Part One: 5:00 PM - 6:45 PM
Part Two: 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM

Prices:
Lunch:
Weekdays: Adults: 4,000 yen / Children (elementary age): 2,500 yen / Toddlers (4-5 years): 1,200 yen
Weekends/Holidays:
Adults: 4,500 yen / Children (elementary age): 2,500 yen / Toddlers (4-5 years): 1,200 yen

Dinner:
Weekdays:
Adults: 6,000 yen / Children (elementary age): 3,500 yen / Toddlers (4-5 years): 1,200 yen
Weekends/Holidays:
Adults: 6,500 yen / Children (elementary age): 3,500 yen / Toddlers (4-5 years): 1,200 yen

Drinks included with lunch & dinner (coffee, tea, soft drinks). 
All prices include service fees and tax. 
Closed: Open year round

Phone: 042-656-6721

Akishima Hydrangea Festival (Akishima City, Tokyo)

Akishima Hydrangea Festival (Akishima City, Tokyo)

Tokyo Akishima Mori Park, an urban resort area located by the north exit of Akishima Station along the JR Ome Line, is now hosting the Akishima Hydrangea Festival, centered on the Mori Park Cafe Local Tavern in the same facility.

The event is a collaboration with the Akigawa Valley Hydrangea Festival, held in Akikawa Valley, Akiruno City. Visitors can enjoy a variety of limited-time menu items, including original pizzas crafted with local Akikawa Valley ingredients, hydrangea tea gelato, and hydrangea ale.

In addition, participants who successfully complete the Minamisawa Ajisai Mountain and Wonderful Nature Village stamp rally in Akiruno City will receive one free drink at Mori Park Cafe Local Tavern. Five pairs of tickets to Tokyo Summerland will also be awarded through a drawing.

Finally, Kita-no-mori, located in the Forest Inn Showakan resort hotel, also boasts a delightful display of nearly 1,300 hydrangeas in full bloom, making it the perfect place for a summertime stroll!

Event Details
Venue: Tokyo-Akishima Mori Park (11F)
562 Tanaka-cho, Akishima, Tokyo 196-0014 (Mori Park Cafe Local Carta Barn)
Period: June 3-July 17, 2023 (national holiday) 
Hours: Varies by event
Closed: Open throughout event
Phone: 042-541-2115

  • Mori Park Cafe Local Tavern
    モリパークカフェ ローカルタバーン
    • Address 562-11F, Tanakacho, Akishima City, Tokyo, 196-0014
    • Phone Number 042-545-2677
    • Hours: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM (9:00 PM last order)
      Lunch: 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM
      Tea time: 2:30 PM - 5:00 PM
      Dinner: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
      Closed: Open daily

Hydrangeas at Hase-dera Temple (Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture)

Hydrangeas at Hase-dera Temple (Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture)

Hase-dera Temple, located about a 5-minute walk from Hase Station on the Enoshima Electric Railway, can be reached in approximately 70 minutes from Tokyo Station. Known as the "Flower Temple," Hase-dera blooms with various flowers throughout the year. 



Among them, the hydrangeas that reach their peak around late May are particularly famous. Over 2,500 hydrangea plants of more than 40 different varieties, each with its own unique color, shape, and blooming time, proudly display their beauty.



During the approximately three-week period when the hydrangeas are in full bloom, in addition to the regular admission ticket, visitors are required to purchase a separate "Hydrangea Admission Ticket" (500 yen) to walk along the "Hydrangea Path (Scenic Walkway)." From the nearby observatory platform, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kamakura's sea and cityscape. On clear days, you may even catch a glimpse of Izu Oshima Island.



Event Details

Venue: Hase Temple

Period: Late May to early July

Hours: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (mountain closes at 5:00 PM); April to June: 5:00 PM (mountain closes at 5:30 PM)

Admission: Adults 400 yen, elementary school students 200 yen, hydrangea admission ticket: 500 yen (*Hydrangea admission ticket distribution period: from the 50% bloom until the end of the best time to view them, usually in June). Determined based on hydrangea blooming conditions.
Phone: 0467-22-6300

Hakone Hydrangea Train (Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture)

Hakone Hydrangea Train (Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture)

Hakone, a popular tourist destination accessible in about 1.5 hours from Shinjuku, is known for its Hakone Tozan Train. Along this railway line, around 10,000 hydrangea bushes bloom in full glory from mid-June to late July each year. During this period, the train that runs from Hakone-Yumoto Station to Gora Station in about 40 minutes is called the "Hydrangea Train."

The hydrangeas along the railway start blooming in mid-June and continue to flourish until mid-July, gradually reaching their peak. The impression of the scenery differs between the uphill and downhill journeys, allowing passengers to enjoy the contrasting views during their round trip.

This year, after a four-year hiatus, the "Night Hydrangea Train," a reserved-seat train, will be operated. The hydrangeas along the railway will be illuminated at night, showcasing a fantastical and enchanting display. Take your time to admire the hydrangeas in a different light during the evening.

Event Details
・Venue: Hakone Tozan Train, along the railway line
・Period: Mid-June to Late July

America & Tokyo BEER&BBQ BLOCK PARTY!!! COOKOUT!!! (Sumida Ward, Tokyo)

America & Tokyo BEER&BBQ BLOCK PARTY!!! COOKOUT!!! (Sumida Ward, Tokyo)

From June 16 to September 10, one of the largest BBQ beer gardens in Tokyo will be held at Sky Arena on the 4th floor of Tokyo Skytree Town. The attraction of this event is its location. The Sky Arena is located in a place where you can look up at the Tokyo Skytree® up close, and only during this period can you enjoy a BEER & BBQ party while gazing at the powerful midsummer Skytree. You can enjoy meat-filled BBQ sets, beer, and cute-looking American stick churros.

The venue will also feature a free playground corner for children, making it a great place for families.

Event Details
・Venue: Sky Arena, Tokyo Skytree Town 4F
・Period: June 16 to September 10, 2023
・Hours: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM (last order at 9:00 PM, varies depending on the menu)
(*The playground equipment is open from 11:00 AM to sunset (weekdays from June 16 to July 21, from 1:00 PM to sunset)).
*Date, time, and content are subject to change without notice due to weather and other circumstances.
*Two-part event on July 29, 2023. The second part is by reservation only. See website for details.

Shitamachi Tanabata Festival (Taito Ward, Tokyo)

Image Source: PIXTA
Image Source: PIXTA

The Tanabata Festival takes place every July along Kappabashi Main Street, spanning nearly 1.2 kilometers west from Asakusa Roku-ku across Dogugai Street to Ueno. Unfortunately, the festival was canceled for the last three years due to Covid-19.

During the festival, the vicinity of Kappabashi Main Street comes alive with festive Tanabata decorations, local merchant stalls, and street performances of Awa Odori and Ecchu Owara-Bushi.

Event Details
・Venue: Kappabashi Main Street (connecting Showa Street to Kokusai Street)
・Period:
-Tanabata Decorations: July 6-10, 2023
-Main Event: July 8-9, 2023
・Hours: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
(Kappabashi Main Street will be closed to traffic)

  • Kappabashi Hondori
    かっぱ橋本通り(昭和通りから国際通りまでを結ぶ通り)
    • Address Matsugaya, Taito Ku, Tokyo To, 111-0036, Japan

Tokyo Bay Noryosen Summer Night Cruise (Tokyo Bay)

Tokyo Bay Noryosen Summer Night Cruise (Tokyo Bay)

The Tokyo Bay Noryosen is a delightful summer cruise that combines breathtaking nighttime views and exquisite cuisine aboard the Sarubia Maru, a gigantic, 6,000-ton passenger ship.

During the cruise period, the ship sets sail from Takeshiba Pier at 7:15 PM daily, taking passengers on a journey around Tokyo Bay before returning to the pier at 9:00 PM. Aboard the ship, experienced navigators provide insightful commentary on Tokyo Bay's captivating night views, while passengers sample an array of foods featuring Tokyo Island ingredients. Musical events may also be available, for an even more enjoyable cruise!

Boarding fees are 1,500 yen for adults, and 500 yen for children. Men and women donning yukata may also receive a 500 yen discount!

During the summer evening cruise period, don't miss out on the Tokyo Bay Noryosen Official Yukata Shop, conveniently located just a 2-minute walk from Takeshiba Pier! The shop offers yukata rental plans that include dressing services, allowing visitors to effortlessly participate on the way home from work or school with no need to bring a yukata of their own.

There’s also a Restaurant Plan available (7,000 yen for adults), which includes a meal, a boarding ticket with a seat aboard the boat, food, and an all-you-can-drink option (additional fees may apply).

Event Details
・Venue: Tokyo Bay
・Period: July 7-September 18, 2023
・Hours: 7:15 PM - 9:00 PM (Departs from Takeshiba Passenger Boat Terminal, goes around of Tokyo Bay, returns to Takeshiba Passenger Boat Terminal)
・Admission:
-Adults: 1,500 yen / Children (elementary age): 500 yen
*Fare includes boarding fee and tax. Food & drink available on board (additional charges apply).
-Yukata discount available (Adults only; excluding Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays; Discounts cannot be combined; Not valid for jinbei and samue).
・Closed: Open year round

  • The Takeshiba Passenger Ship Terminal
    竹芝客船ターミナル
    • Address 1-16-3, Kaigan, Minato Ku, Tokyo To, 105-0022, Japan

Tokyo Skytree Town Summer Event Furinko Michi (Sumida Ward, Tokyo)

Tokyo Skytree Town Summer Event Furinko Michi (Sumida Ward, Tokyo)

This event will take place at the Sky Arena, located on the fourth floor of Tokyo Skytree Town. Dozens of wind chimes adorn Furin Komichi street, immersing visitors in a cool, captivating atmosphere. As you gaze up at the magnificent Tokyo Sky Tree, listen for the gentle tinkling of the wind chimes and embrace the essence of Japanese summer!

Event Details
・Venue: Tokyo Skytree Town (4F), Sky Arena, Side 9 
・Dates: July 14 - September 3, 2023
・Admission: Free
・Closed: Open during event

J-WAVE presents INSPIRE TOKYO 2023: Best Music & Market (Shibuya, Tokyo)

J-WAVE presents INSPIRE TOKYO 2023: Best Music & Market (Shibuya, Tokyo)

At this urban culture festival, Tokyo Pop Culture to the World, attendees will enjoy performances by popular Japanese artists such as Superfly, Cocco, Shisamo, Ryuji Imaichi from J Soul Brothers, Yuki, Perfume, and Ikimono-gakari.

This year’s highly-anticipated live concerts are scheduled to show not only at Yoyogi National Stadium First Gymnasium, but will also expand to a satellite venue in Shibuya, including a Shibuya Cast along Meiji-dori.

Around the Yoyogi Stadium vicinity, visitors without tickets to the live event can still join in on the fun by checking out the market, which offers food carts with a variety of international treats, including Scandinavian cuisine, fish & chips, hot sandwiches, and more.

A Neo Bon Odori will also take place near the Harajuku Exit of Yoyogi National Stadium, decorated with LED lanterns and brimming with that summer festival vibe. There will also be a Tokyo Culture Fair with a variety of stalls, from those selling Japanese masks to games like ring toss and target practice, as well as treats like shaved ice and ramune, and masks. There’s even a wading pool!

Event Details
・Venue: National Yoyogi Stadium First Gymnasium
1-1-1 Jinnan 2-chome, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0041
・Period: July 15-16, 2023
・Hours: 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM (tentative)
・Admission:
-Each day/all reserved seats 11,000 yen (tax included; original bamboo fan included)
-Each day/VIP ticket 100,000 yen (tax included.; see official website for special offers)
・Closed: Open throughout event

  • National Yoyogi Stadium First Gymnasium
    国立代々木競技場 第一体育館
    • Address 2-1-1, Jinnan, Shibuya Ku, Tokyo To, 150-0041, Japan

Travel Back in Time: Cool Evenings with a Great View (Shinagawa, Tokyo)

Travel Back in Time: Cool Evenings with a Great View (Shinagawa, Tokyo)

This summer evening event will be held at the Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa in commemoration of its 70th anniversary. The hotel’s Japanese garden will be decorated with vivid parasols, reminiscent of the Edo Period (1603-1868), and over 400 bamboo lights. As an extra touch, bamboo ornaments called ‘takemari’ will also bring the garden’s pond to life with the image of fireflies gracefully dancing through the air.

On the first floor of Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa in Lounge Komyo, guests can enjoy some delicious shaved ice while overlooking the Japanese garden (3,800 yen, tax included, service charge not included). These ices, served in gorgeous Kyo-yaki bowls, are made with first-grade Fukujuen tea, dating back to the Edo Period, and Tamba Kuromame. As you eat your way through this delightful dish, you’ll appreciate the varying flavors of the wasanbon (fine-grained Japanese sugar) and green tea ice creams, and the azuki beans. There’s also a delicious green tea syrup you can drizzle in yourself!

Overnight stay plans also allow visitors to rent hand-held bamboo lanterns (one per person), so you can unwind in style as you escape the midsummer heat.

Event Details
・Venue: Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa, Japanese Garden
・Dates: July 21 - August 31, 2023
・Hours: 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM *Varies by season
・Admission: Free
・Closed: Open daily during event
・Phone: 03-3447-1111 (Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa Reservations Dept.)

ONE PIECE DAY ’23 (Koto Ward, Tokyo)

ONE PIECE DAY ’23 (Koto Ward, Tokyo)

ONE PIECE DAY '23, a grand celebration for fans of the beloved series all over the world, will be held at Tokyo Big Sight, bringing together all the elements of ONE PIECE from the manga and anime, to movies, music, games and goods. The event will be held over a two-day period: Day 1 (Friday, July 21) and Day 2 (Saturday, July 22). Admission is limited to pre-registration or invitation only. Lucky lottery winners have the chance to enter for free.

The highlight of Day 1 on July 21 is the exhilarating "Let’s go! One Piece Film Red Special Cheer Screening”, which celebrates the lifting of the shouting ban that was imposed in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Day 2 of the event (July 22) will showcase a "Special Stage”, where a spectacular cast will take the stage, giving attendees an exclusive opportunity to witness first-release announcements and other exciting content that will only be revealed here. So don’t miss these special exhibits, only at ONE PIECE DAY '23, and delve into the world of ONE PIECE with a look at reproductions of original drawings, anime storyboards, and video content.

The exhibition will also be simultaneously streamed on YouTube, allowing those unable to attend in person to enjoy the excitement of the occasion.

©Eiichiro Oda / Shueisha
©Eiichiro Oda / Shueisha, Fuji Television Network, Toei Animation

Event Details
・Venue: Tokyo Big Sight, South Exhibition Hall 4F, Halls 3 and 4
・Period:
-Day 1: July 21, 2023: Starts 5:00 PM (admission begins 4:00 PM)
-Day 2: July 22, 2023: Starts 9:00 AM
・Admission:
・Tokyo Big Sight: advanced reservations via official website (https://onepiece-day.com/)
(Free admission via special invitation only)
For more details, see official website below.

The 45th Adachi Fireworks (Adachi, Tokyo)

The 45th Adachi Fireworks (Adachi, Tokyo)

This fireworks display, held in late July, marks the beginning of Tokyo's grand-scale fireworks events.

Set against the backdrop of the Arakawa River, nearly 15,000 fireworks illuminate the night sky in a spectacle that dazzles attendees for nearly a whole hour.

This four-part event includes a musical fireworks display, and is highlighted by the finale of powerful starmine fireworks, all shot off in unison. Visitors will also be amazed by the 300-meter-wide Niagara fireworks!

Event Details
・Venue: Arakawa Riverside, Senju-Ogawa-cho, Adachi-ku, Tokyo 120-0031
・Date: July 22
・Time: 7:20 PM - 8:20 PM
*Canceled in event of inclement weather
・Admission: Free
・Phone: 03-3880-5853

  • Adachi Fireworks
    • Address Arakawa riverbed, Senju Okawa-cho, Adachi-ku, Tokyo, 120-0031
      View Map
    • Nearest Station Kita-Senju Station (JR Joban Line / JR Ueno Tokyo Line / Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line / Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line / Tobu Isesaki Line (Tobu Sky Tree Line) / Tsukuba Express)
      15 minutes on foot
    • Phone Number 03-3880-5853

The 46th Sumida River Fireworks Display (Taito Ward, Tokyo)

Image Source: PIXTA
Image Source: PIXTA

One of Tokyo’s most famous historical fireworks festivals, this event began in 1733, and continues to attract nearly one million spectators every year!

The event spans two sites: the first stretches from Sakura-bashi downstream to Kototoi-bashi upstream, and features approximately 9,350 fireworks (including 200 contest balls). The second site spans Komagata-bashi to Umaya-bashi, and presents nearly 10,650 fireworks, for a total of approximately 20,000 fireworks.

The first site will also feature an exciting fireworks competition between 10 different companies, including some associated with Ryogoku Fireworks and some that have garnered outstanding achievements at other major fireworks festivals throughout Japan.

Event Details
・Venue: Sumida River
・Date: July 29, 2023
*May be canceled in event of inclement weather
・Time: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
・Admission: Free

  • Sumida River Fireworks Festival
    • Address Sakurabashi Lower Sumida-ku-Kotobashi Upper (1st venue), Komagata-bashi Lower-Kamabashi (2nd venue), 130-0000
      View Map
    • Nearest Station Asakusa Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line / Toei Asakusa Line / Tobu Isesaki Line (Tobu Sky Tree Line) / Tsukuba Express)
      15 minutes on foot
    • Phone Number 03-5246-1111

Tokyo in July brings forth an amazing array of outdoor music festivals, summer festivals, fireworks displays, and plenty of other events and activities. So don a comfy yukata, head outside, and join in the summer fun at any or all of these exciting events!

Information in article as of June 2023. Please see official websites for the latest updates & information.

English translation by: Krys Suzuki

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.

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