Top Things to Do in Japan This August of 2025: Events, Festivals & Activities
- Yuwei
- Jul 26
- 8 min read
Summer 2025 is coming to a close, but there’s still plenty to enjoy!
Discover the latest events happening across Japan this August: we’ve rounded them up just for you.
Tokyo and Surrounding Areas
Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe) and Surrounding Areas
16th Minato Mirai Grand Bon Odori Festival (2025)
Join the lively 16th Minato Mirai Grand Bon Odori Festival in Yokohama on August 29–30, 2025! Enjoy traditional Japanese dance, a food court, and eco-friendly festivities by the bay.
🗓 Schedule
Friday, August 29, 2025: 16:30–20:30
Saturday, August 30, 2025: 16:00–20:30
(Held despite rain; may be canceled or adjusted in case of severe weather)
✨ Event Highlights
Bon Odori DancingEnjoy traditional Japanese folk dancing under the summer sky with locals and visitors alike. Participation is welcome!
Food CourtA newly introduced food court will feature a lineup of kitchen cars and a relaxing seating area—perfect for breaks between dances.
Sustainability InitiativesThis year’s festival places a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility:
Eco Stations for 100% waste recycling
Bottle-to-Bottle recycling project for used PET bottles
Use of bamboo fans and paper tableware
Net-zero CO₂ electricity supplied by renewable local energy
📍 Location & Access
Rinko Park & Plaza Square, Minato Mirai, Yokohama
(Address: Minato Mirai 1, Nishi-ku, Yokohama City)
💴 Admission
Free entrance
🔗 Official Info & Links
Official Website (Available in Japanese)
Kamakura Bonbori Festival 2025: 400 Illuminated Lanterns at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu
Experience the Kamakura Bonbori Festival 2025 from August 6–9, where around 400 artistically inscribed lanterns light up the historic grounds of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. A serene summer celebration of art, prayer, and tradition.
🗓 Schedule
Date: August 6 (Wed) – August 9 (Sat), 2025
Time: 9:00–21:00 (Lanterns illuminated from dusk)
✨ Event Highlights
✍️ Bonbori Lanterns by Famous Calligraphers
Admire about 400 lanterns inscribed with elegant calligraphy and art by a wide array of notable individuals, from authors and actors to politicians and painters.
🌆 Magical Evening Illumination
From sunset, the lanterns begin to glow, transforming the shrine into a softly lit wonderland. The contrast with the daytime ambiance adds depth to the experience.
🕊️ Traditional Shinto Ceremonies
Three sacred rituals take place during the festival period:
August 6 – Nagoshi-sai (Mid-summer purification)
August 7 – Risshū-sai (Early autumn welcoming)
August 9 – Sanetomo-sai (Memorial for Minamoto no Sanetomo)
These understated, solemn rites are integral to Kamakura’s spiritual charm.
🍧 Festival Food Stalls
Seasonal stalls and classic festival food vendors line the shrine’s approach, allowing guests to enjoy local snacks while soaking in the festive yet peaceful atmosphere.
📍 Location & Access
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura
Approx. 10-minute walk from JR or Enoden Kamakura Station (East Exit)
💴 Admission
Free entrance
🔗 Official Info & Links
Official Event Page (Available in Japanese)
Kagoshima Kinko Bay Summer Night Fireworks Festival 2025: One of Kyushu’s Largest Displays
Set against the stunning backdrop of Sakurajima and Kinko Bay, the Kagoshima Kinko Bay Summer Night Fireworks Festival 2025 takes place on August 23 with over an hour of spectacular fireworks. Don’t miss Kyushu’s grandest summer spectacle!
🗓 Schedule
Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
Time: 19:20–20:30 (Fireworks start at 19:30)
✨ Event Highlights
Over an Hour of Non-Stop Fireworks
From 19:30 to 20:30, enjoy a thrilling and tightly choreographed fireworks performance designed to dazzle with scale, rhythm, and spectacle.
Unique Natural Backdrop
The combination of a live volcano (Sakurajima) and a calm bay offers a one-of-a-kind stage for this sky show—perfect for both photography and peaceful contemplation.
Special Cruise & Waterfront Vantage Points
Some tours offer cruise-based viewing of the fireworks from Kinko Bay. This option provides a more relaxed and premium viewing experience away from the crowds.
📍 Location & Access
Kagoshima Port, Main Wharf Area
Approx. 15-minute walk or short tram ride from JR Kagoshima-Chuo Station
Use public transport due to heavy traffic and road restrictions
💴 Admission
Free viewing areas available
Paid seating tickets available on the official event page
🔗 Official Info & Links
Official Event Page (in Japanese)
Tanabata Sky Lantern Festival 2025: Kyoto Edition
Join Japan’s largest lantern festival in Kyoto this August 2025. Release a glowing lantern under the stars and enjoy nostalgic summer festivities with music, food, and games.
🗓 Schedule
Date:
August 8 (Fri) – August 11 (Mon, public holiday)
August 16 (Sat) – August 17 (Sun), 2025
Time: 17:00–21:00
✨ Event Highlights
🎋 Sky Lantern Release
Attach your wishes to a lantern and watch it rise with gentle music in the background. Up to 3,500 lanterns may be released in one night. Lanterns are safely equipped with a weight and tether.
🎯 Retro Summer Games
Enjoy nostalgic fair-style attractions like shateki (cork shooting) and super ball scooping.
📷 Photo Spots
Capture stunning photos against a dreamy lantern-lit backdrop.
🎶 Live Music Stage
Relax to live artist performances throughout the evening.
🍧 Tanabata Food Trucks
Indulge in summer snacks and cold drinks from gourmet kitchen cars.
🔮 Water Fortune Telling & Tanabata Activities
Discover special themed experiences only found at this event.
📍 Location & Access
Joyo Gorigo-no-Oka (Kyoto Prefectural Kizugawa Sports Park)
Access: From JR Nara Line Nagaike Station, Exit from the north gate, then walk approx. 10 minutes to the park center.
💴 Admission
Regular Ticket:
Adult: ¥6,500〜 (includes 1 sky lantern)
Child (6–12 years): ¥2,500 (no lantern)
Infant (0–5 years): Free (no ticket or lantern required)
With Event Cancellation Guarantee:
Adult: ¥8,500〜 (includes 1 sky lantern)
Child (6–12 years): ¥3,500 (no lantern)
Infant (0–5 years): Free (no ticket or lantern required)
🎟️ All guests must purchase tickets in advance. Entry without a ticket is not permitted.
Note:
One sky lantern is included per adult ticket only.
Some activities inside the venue are paid (e.g., fair games require a separate ticket system).
In case of inclement weather, ticket holders with the cancellation guarantee may be eligible for refunds.
Lanterns cannot be taken home.
🔗 Official Info & Links
Official Event Page (Available in English)
Kobe Umi no Bon Odori 2025: A Traditional Japanese Dance Festival by the Sea
Celebrating one of the Kobe’s most beloved summer festivals while dancing! | Source: iStock
Experience Kobe's beloved summer tradition at the Umi no Bon Odori Festival 2025 in Meriken Park. Join locals in joyful Bon dances by the sea, enjoy food trucks, kids’ games, and live folk music on August 16.
🗓 Schedule
Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Time: 18:00–20:30 (light rain OK, severe weather = canceled)
✨ Event Highlights
Live Bon Odori music & dancing
Regional favorites like Tankō Bushi, Soma Bon Uta, Ohara Bushi, and Kobe originals like Minato Ondo and Kobe Haiya Bushi
Modern & fun performances
Including the nostalgic hit Dancing Hero and Oronamin C Genki Hatsuratsu Ondo
Over 40 food trucks
With summer treats like karaage, yakisoba, garlic shrimp, fruit candy, and craft beer
Kids’ corner
Games like yo-yo fishing, super ball scooping, and DIY pouch-making
Limited-edition t-shirts
Pick up the cheerful Kamomen mascot tee which is perfect for souvenirs
📍 Location & Access
Meriken Park, Kobe
7 min walk from Minato Motomachi Station (Subway Kaigan Line)
10 min from JR or Hanshin Motomachi Station
2 min walk from City Loop Bus “Port Tower Mae” stop
💴 Admission
Free admission
Arrive early to grab a good viewing (or dancing) spot.
Wear a yukata to blend in and enjoy the full summer vibe.
Bring cash for food and T-shirt purchases.
No parking on-site; please use public transportation.
🔗 Official Info & Links
Official Event Page (Available in English)
Nara Tokae 2025: A Magical Candle Festival in the Heart of Ancient Japan
“Tokae” literally means “Gathering of Candle Flowers.” Each evening, volunteers and organizers light thousands of candles in carefully arranged patterns throughout Nara Park’s historic precincts.
The soft glow of candlelight set against ancient temples, ponds, and greenery creates an atmosphere of peace, beauty, and gratitude.
🗓 Schedule
Dates: August 5 (Tue) – August 14 (Thu), 2025
Lighting Time: 19:00 – 21:30
Note: Event dates and times may change depending on weather and conditions.
✨ Event Highlights
Thousands of delicate candles light up the historic grounds of Nara Park, creating a magical summer nightscape.
A peaceful, reflective ambiance surrounded by the beauty of Nara’s temples, nature, and deer.
Photo-worthy candle-lit paths, spiritual atmosphere, and a one-of-a-kind romantic setting.
📍 Location & Access
Nara Park and surrounding areas
(Held across several historic temple and shrine precincts)
💴 Admission
Free admission
Participation & Sponsorship are welcomed
🔗 Official Info & Links
Official Event Page (Available in Japanese)
Yoshinogawa Festival 2025: 4,000 Fireworks & Summer Fun in Gojo, Nara
Held annually in Gojo City, Nara Prefecture, the Yoshinogawa Festival is a beloved summer tradition now celebrating its 51st year. On August 15, 2025, enjoy a spectacular fireworks show with around 4,000 fireworks synchronized to music and lasers, lighting up the night sky along the Yoshino River.
🗓 Schedule
August 15, 2025 (Friday)
Food stalls & shops: 14:00–21:00
Fireworks display: 19:30–20:30
✨ Event Highlights
4,000 fireworks light up the summer sky over the Yoshinogawa River.
A synchronized show of music, colorful fireworks, and lasers.
Dozens of food stalls and antenna shops line the riverbanks.
Opportunity to dedicate a personal message firework (for ¥20,000) with your custom message announced before launch.
📍 Location & Access
Yoshinogawa River area, Gojo City, Nara Prefecture
Approx. 5 mins walk from Gojo Station (JR Wakayama Line)
Event-day traffic restrictions apply; public transport strongly recommended.
💴 Admission
Paid Seating Options On sale via lottery and mail-in application.
1. Premium Lawn Area (3m x 3m / Up to 8 people)
320 spots | ¥20,000
With blue sheet, front area
Application starts: July 10, 2025
2. Regular Lawn Area (2m x 2m / Up to 4 people)
160 spots | ¥15,000
With blue sheet
Application: July 15–24
3. Basic Ground Area (2m x 2m / No sheet)
300 spots | ¥10,000
Bring your own seating
Application: July 15–24
4. Riverbank Pipe Chair Seating
300 seats | ¥5,000 per person
Kids under school age sit on lap for free
Application: July 15–24 via Ticket Pia lottery
🔗 Official Info & Links
Official Event Website (In Japanese)
Kanazawa Castle & Kenrokuen Light-Up: Summer Nights Illuminated
Celebrate the beauty of summer in Kanazawa with the “Four Seasons Story: Summer Chapter” light-up event in Kanazawa. | Source: iStock
Enjoy the seasonal Kanazawa Castle & Kenrokuen Summer Light-Up 2025. Stroll illuminated gardens and castles at night with concerts and free entry to Kenrokuen.
🗓 Schedule
August 9 (Sat)–10 (Sun), 16 (Sat), 23 (Sat), 30 (Sat), 2025
19:00–20:45 (Gates close at 21:00)
Note: Event may be canceled or changed due to severe weather.
✨ Event Highlights
For five selected nights in August, both Kanazawa Castle Park and Kenrokuen Garden will be beautifully illuminated, offering a rare and magical evening stroll through two of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
📍 Location & Access
Kenrokuen Garden
Kanazawa Castle Park
Gyokuseninmaru Garden
💴 Admission
Free
🔗 Official Info & Links
Official Event Page (Available in English)
Explore More Nationwide Festivals and Events in Japan with TOMOGO! in August
If you’re planning a summer trip to Kanazawa or looking to make the most of your time in Japan, TOMOGO! offers curated tours that blend iconic sights with hidden local gems. Whether you want to explore traditional neighborhoods, discover regional food culture, or experience Japan beyond the guidebooks, our friendly local guides are here to help you connect with the heart of each destination. Reach out to TOMOGo! to explore more festivals and events in Japan in the upcoming August!
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