Enjoy Japan’s Summer Festivals!
- Yuki sensei
- Jul 22
- 3 min read
– Traditions, Food Stalls, and Fireworks
Japanese Summer and the Charm of Festivals
Summer in Japan is hot and humid, but that’s exactly why it’s full of exciting events. Among them, 夏祭り: natsu matsuri (summer festivals) are the highlight of the season. People wear 浴衣 : yukata (summer kimono), enjoy delicious street food, carry traditional shrines, and watch fireworks light up the night sky. This unique cultural experience is popular with Japanese people as well as tourists and Japanese language learners.
What is a “Natsu Matsuri”? – A Blend of Tradition and Community
Most summer festivals originated from traditional Shinto rituals to pray for good harvests and to ward off illness. Today, they also serve as large community events where locals come together to celebrate with music, food, and dancing.
What You'll Find at a Typical Summer Festival
屋台 (yatai) Food Stalls: Takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba (fried noodles), shaved ice, goldfish scooping, water balloon fishing, and more.
浴衣(Yukata) and 甚平 (Jinbei): Lightweight traditional clothing perfect for summer.
盆踊り(Bon odori) : Traditional group dancing performed to folk songs.
花火(Hanabi) Fireworks : A symbol of summer in Japan. Big festivals often end with dazzling firework displays.
Useful Japanese Phrases for Festival Season (For Intermediate Learners)
Situation | Phrase | Tip |
Food | 「たこ焼きを食べました」= I ate takoyaki | Use “〜を” for the object you ate |
Fireworks | 「花火がきれいでした」= The fireworks were beautiful | Use “〜が” for describing the subject |
Clothing | 「浴衣を着ました」= I wore a yukata | Great for talking about your outfit |
Feelings | 「わくわくしました」「ドーンと音がしました」= I was excited / I heard a “boom!” | Try adding onomatopoeia for fun and vivid expression |
Famous Summer Festivals Across Japan
Here are some of Japan’s most iconic festivals. If you’re planning to visit, check their official websites for dates and access information.
青森ねぶた祭 Aomori Nebuta Festival (Aomori, Aug 2–7)
Giant illuminated floats and the energetic “ラッセーラ！Rassera!” chant.
→ [Official Website]
秋田竿燈まつり Akita Kanto Festival (Akita, Aug 3–6)
Skilled performers balance massive lantern poles on their bodies.
→ [Official Website]
仙台七夕まつり Sendai Tanabata Festival (Sendai, Aug 6–8)
Extravagant star-themed decorations and fireworks the night before.
→ [Official Website]
隅田川花火大会 Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Tokyo, July 27, 2025)
One of Tokyo’s biggest displays with over 20,000 fireworks.
→ [Official Website]
博多祇園山笠 Hakata Gion Yamakasa (Fukuoka, July 1–15)
Dynamic races with beautifully decorated portable shrines.
→ [Official Website]
天神祭 Tenjin Matsuri (Osaka, late July)
Traditional boat processions and fireworks along the river.
→ [Official Website]
よさこいフェスティバル Yosakoi Festival (Kochi, Aug 9–12) & Awa Odori (Tokushima, Aug 11–15) Lively team dances with vibrant costumes and music. → [Official Websites]
Japan’s summer is full of unique festivals — if you plan ahead, you can even visit several in one trip!
Tips for Joining a Festival (Especially for Visitors)
What to Bring: Yukata (or cool clothing), folding fan, hat, small change, and water.
Book Early: Accommodations near famous festivals often fill up quickly.
Transportation: Check for temporary trains or buses and head out early.
Manners: Take your trash home, be respectful in crowds, and ask before taking photos.
Learn with Yuki sensei !
In Yuki sensei's Japanese lessons, I don’t just teach grammar — I bring Japanese culture to life through seasonal topics like summer festivals. Want to learn more about Japan’s traditions while improving your Japanese? Come join my class!
See you in the next class!
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