Kaminarimon Gate is one of Tokyo’s most popular sightseeing spots. The road leading up to it is the venue for this late summer event when it transforms into a stage and dance floor.

Bon-Odori is a Japanese summer tradition. People dance wearing colorful yukata, the lighter summer version of kimono. And many dance moves are made holding a fan. The music is lively with drums playing a steady rhythm to traditional and popular Japanese songs. Don’t miss this opportunity to see bon-odori this summer.

Kaminarimon Bon-Odori & Dream Lanters

Date: Saturday, September 8, 2018

Venue: around Namiki-dori street in front of Senso-ji Temple’s Kaminarimon Gate in Asakusa

Time: 18:00 - 21:00

Take a walk through the small streets near the Asakusa Line Asakusa Station and the venue to see the event lanterns in the evening.

To dress up in style for bon-odori dancing go to one of the many stores in Asakusa that sell and rent kimono and yukata. They can help you get dressed in a complete outfit. If you are not sure where to go, ask the staff at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center located opposite Kaminarimon Gate. They can help find what you are looking for.

Come early if you want to take pictures in yukata. If you are more interested in shopping and want to browse stores for traditional clothing, take a walk through the shopping streets around the Senso-ji Temple grounds like Orange Street, Shin-Nakamise, Denboin-dori, or Asakusa Nishi-sando. You can find shops renting inexpensive yukata and kimono for a day here, but also shops selling high quality order-made items.