Summer Festival: Amazing Times in Japan!

When it gets warm in Japan, many people go to a summer festival that transforms quiet streets into dazzling spectacles of color, sound, and tradition. As the heat rises, so does the excitement, with matsuri celebrations offering a captivating blend of ancient customs and modern revelry. Let’s take a closer look!

What can I expect at a summer festival in Japan?

Attending a Japanese matsuri, or festival, is an exciting and fun experience! These events feature many fantastic activities and fascinating traditions. When you arrive, you’ll see numerous game booths where you can try activities such as scooping up goldfish or hitting targets. Bring some money because you’ll want to taste the delicious festival foods! You can enjoy grilled chicken skewers or octopus balls, which are very tasty.

A highlight of a matsuri is watching people carry a large, decorated shrine called a mikoshi through the streets. They shout “wasshoi!” as they move, which is quite impressive. You might also see traditional dances and hear Japanese drums being played.

Many people also wear light summer robes called yukata, which are very stylish. Some festivals also have large, decorated floats pulled along the streets. You’ll see both a procession and celebratory activities happening at once. Whether playing games, eating tasty snacks or enjoying the lively atmosphere, a Japanese matsuri is an unforgettable experience.

What kind of food can I enjoy this summer?

Chilled ramen is a fun twist on regular hot ramen. It’s called hiyashi chuka in Japanese. This cold dish has thin, chilled noodles with lots of colorful toppings. You might see cucumber strips, ham, egg, and tomato on top. It usually comes with a tangy, slightly sweet sauce. Some places offer different sauces or even cold broths. Overall, this dish is excellent when it’s hot outside and you want something light and refreshing to eat.

Manneken waffles are also delicious treats that originated in Belgium but are now super popular in Japan. They’re crispy outside and soft inside and often served warm. In summer, you can find special flavors. Imagine biting into a waffle topped with fresh strawberries or peaches or filled with cool cream. Some shops even make ice cream waffle sandwiches—how awesome is that for a hot day?

Are you looking for great snacks for the next summer festival? TokyoTreat delivers limited-edition Japanese noodles, snacks, drinks, and sweets right to your door so you can enjoy the latest Christmas treats directly from Japan!

How else can I enjoy the matsuri season?

If you can’t attend a real matsuri, watching anime episodes featuring festivals is a great way to experience the excitement of these events. Two notable episodes that showcase different aspects of Japanese summer festivals are “The Ghost of Maiden’s Peak” from Pokémon and “Star Festival” from Date A Live!

In the Pokémon episode “The Ghost of Maiden’s Peak,” Ash and his friends arrive at a small port town celebrating a summer festival. This episode captures the lively atmosphere of a traditional matsuri, complete with games, food stalls, and local legends. The story revolves around a mysterious ghost that appears during the festival, which turns out to be the Pokémon Gastly creating illusions. This episode showcases how ghost stories and supernatural elements often play a role in Japanese summer festivals.

The “Star Festival” episode from Date A Live! focuses on the Tanabata festival, also known as the Star Festival. This celebration is typically held in July or August, depending on the region. The episode likely features characters participating in traditional Tanabata activities, such as writing wishes on colorful strips of paper called tanzaku and hanging them on bamboo branches.

Why should I go to a matsuri this summer?

Attending a summer festival in Japan offers a unique and unforgettable cultural experience. These vibrant events, known as matsuri, allow you to immerse yourself in Japanese traditions, cuisine, and community spirit. 

Additionally, summer festivals showcase Japan’s rich cultural heritage. You’ll witness centuries-old traditions come to life through colorful processions, traditional performances, and intricate decorations. The sight of people dressed in yukata (summer kimono) and the sound of taiko drums create an atmosphere that transports you to another time.

These events are also a feast for the senses. At the yatai (food stalls), you can sample various delicious Japanese street foods, from savory yakitori to sweet kakigori (shaved ice). The dazzling fireworks displays that often accompany these festivals are a visual treat not to be missed.

Finally, they offer a chance to connect with local communities and experience Japanese hospitality firsthand. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes it easy for visitors to participate in activities and interact with locals. Whether carrying a mikoshi (portable shrine) or joining a traditional dance, you’ll feel a sense of belonging and shared joy.

Overall, attending a summer festival in Japan is more than just a tourist activity – it’s an opportunity to experience the heart and soul of Japanese culture. The memories you create, the flavors you taste, and the traditions you witness will stay with you long after the festival ends, making it a genuinely enriching addition to any trip to Japan. Have you ever been to a summer festival in Japan before? Let us know in the comments below!