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#68

Experience the Magic of Natsumatsuri – Japan’s Summer Festivals!

by Zaj Banzon

If you’re in Japan during the summer months, you’ll quickly notice something special in the air—colorful lanterns, festive music, mouthwatering smells, and people in yukata walking the streets. Yep, it’s Natsumatsuri season!

But what exactly is Natsumatsuri ?

What is Natsumatsuri ?

Natsumatsuri (夏祭り), or summer festival, is one of Japan’s most exciting seasonal traditions. These festivals pop up all across the country during July and August, each one with its own unique flavor. But beyond all the fun, Natsumatsuri has deep roots in Japanese culture.

Traditionally, these festivals were held to :

Pray for protection from disease or natural disasters;
Wish for a good harvest;
Honor ancestral spirits, especially around Obon, a time when it’s believed the spirits of ancestors return to visit.

You’ll find a wide range of events and customs, but most festivals include :

Shinto rituals and shrine celebrations.
Bon Odori (盆踊り), a traditional dance performed in a circle.
Yatai (屋台), or street food stalls.
Parades featuring floats (山車/dashi) and portable shrines (神輿/mikoshi).
Matsuri-bayashi (祭囃子) – energetic festival music played with drums, flutes, and bells.

It’s one of those things you really have to experience to understand—like a mix of cultural tradition, community spirit, and carnival fun.

Tips for Enjoying Natsumatsuri Like a Local

Dress the Part : Wear a Yukata (浴衣) or Jinbei (甚平)

Want to really get into the festival spirit? Dressing up is part of the fun!

What’s a Yukata (浴衣)?

A yukata is a light, casual kimono made of cotton or linen, designed for summer. It’s much simpler and more breathable than a traditional kimono, and it comes in tons of beautiful patterns—think fireworks, flowers, and traditional prints.

Here’s how it’s different from a kimono :

Made for summer – unlined, lightweight, and cool to wear.
Simple to wear – no complicated layers or stiff collars.
Worn with a soft obi (belt), geta (wooden sandals), and often a cute kinchaku (drawstring bag).

Many festivals have yukata rental booths or shops that can help you pick one out and even dress you, so don’t worry if you’ve never worn one before.

Jinbei (甚平): A More Casual Option

If yukata feels a bit too much, there’s a more relaxed alternative: jinbei. This is a two-piece outfit made of cotton—shorts and a matching top with short sleeves. It’s especially popular for kids and men, but women wear them too!

Jinbei are super comfy, easy to put on, and perfect for hot summer nights when you want to stay cool while still enjoying the festive vibe.

Whether you go all out in a yukata or keep it simple with a jinbei, dressing up really brings the whole festival experience to life.

Eat All the Festival Food

Natsumatsuri is a total foodie’s paradise. You’ll find rows of yatai (food stalls), each one tempting you with delicious smells and sizzling sounds.

Here are some classic treats to try :

Takoyaki (たこ焼き) – crispy on the outside, gooey inside octopus balls.
Yakisoba (焼きそば) – stir-fried noodles with sauce and toppings.
Okonomiyaki (お好み焼き)– savory pancakes filled with cabbage, pork, and more.
Jagabata (じゃがバター) – buttered potatoes (so simple, so good).
Kakigōri (かき氷) – shaved ice with fruity syrups, perfect for beating the heat.
Ringo-ame (りんご飴) – shiny red candied apples.
Choco banana (チョコバナナ) – chocolate-dipped bananas with sprinkles.
Baby castella (ベビーカステラ) – mini sponge cakes, often warm and fluffy.

Just follow your nose and try whatever catches your eye—you really can’t go wrong.

Traditional Festival Games

Even if you’re not a kid, the game stalls are so much fun. They’re colorful, nostalgic, and honestly kind of addictive.

Here are a few of the classics:

Kingyo-sukui (金魚すくい) – scoop a goldfish using a delicate paper net (not easy!).
Shateki (射的) – a shooting game where you aim at prizes with a cork gun.
Yoyo-tsuri (ヨーヨー釣り) – fish for a bouncy water balloon using a paper string.
Wanage (輪投げ) – ring toss with small prizes for winners.

You may or may not win a prize, but it’s all part of the experience. Plus, it makes for great photos and memories!

Wrapping It Up : Make the Most of Summer in Japan

From the sound of taiko drums to the taste of kakigōri and the glow of fireworks overhead, Natsumatsuri is something you’ll never forget. It’s one of the best ways to experience Japanese culture up close, and every festival has its own charm and surprises.

Whether you’re dancing Bon Odori with strangers, eating way too many snacks, or walking hand-in-hand in your yukata, summer festivals are all about enjoying the moment.

If you get the chance, don’t miss it—just bring your appetite, a fan, and a sense of adventure!

Looking for a Festival to Visit or other things to do this summer?

Posted : 23 May 2025