Japan Matsuri Calendar
A comprehensive, rule-based interactive guide parsing national shrine parades, floats, and historic events. Filter by month or see what is active right now.
Explore by Month
May Festivals3 events found
Kanda Matsuri
Imperial ParadeLocation: Kanda Shrine, Tokyo
Dates: Mid-May (Odd Years Only)★ Peak Spectacle: Saturday & Sunday closest to May 15
One of Tokyo's three major Shinto festivals. Celebrates prosperity and good fortune with a massive procession of over a hundred portable shrines (mikoshi) marching through central Tokyo.
Aoi Matsuri (Hollyhock Festival)
Imperial ParadeLocation: Shimogamo & Kamigamo Shrines, Kyoto
Dates: May 15
A elegant and stately procession of people dressed in authentic Heian Period imperial court costumes, re-enacting the delivery of messages to Kyoto's ancient Shinto shrines.
Sanja Matsuri
Shrine ParadeLocation: Sensoji Temple / Asakusa Shrine, Tokyo
Dates: Third Weekend of May
One of Tokyo's wildest and most energetic festivals. Over 100 portable shrines (mikoshi) are paraded through the streets of Asakusa, carried by chanting, high-spirited locals.
Procession Etiquette
- Check the active list above to identify parades occurring near you today.
- Navigate directly to the shrine's street address. The main procession routes are typically lined with lanterns and spectators.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before the peak procession hours to secure a viewing spot on the street.
- Show respect during sacred moments: bow when mikoshi pass by, avoid blocking pathways, and never touch floats without invitation.
Yatai Cash Rules
Food stalls (Yatai) set up around festival perimeters do not accept IC-cards or credit cards. You must carry physical cash (coins and ¥1,000 bills) to purchase items (typically ¥500 to ¥1,000 per food portion).