Come feel the excitement as row after row of colorful performers make their way down the streets around Asakusa. As the normally held Asakusa Samba Carnival was put off for the last few years due to the corona crisis, this year, as a special “replacement festival,” Asakusa Samba Festa 2022 will be held to carry on this annual tradition of Brazilian music and dance.

Typically drawing around 500,000 spectators, the event has drawn more and more support from the people in Asakusa each year, and the rousing performances bring a smile to all who participate and attend.

The parade itself has more than you can imagine! Masked ladies in sequin-laced micro bikinis. Flashy and gaudy decorations and oversized props. Rows and rows of colorfully dressed drummers beating out a rhythm that can make anyone dance. And of course, feathers, feathers and more feathers!

Readers should note that this is not simply a mob of dancers wearing flamboyant and colorfully feathered costumes. The Asakusa Samba Carnival, which is normally held each year, is one of the largest samba carnival in the northern hemisphere, thanks to the participation of all the dancing teams, who have modeled their dances after those at the carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. One highlight of this event is the competition which all participants are eager to win.

This year, as a special part of this one-time Asakusa Samba Festa, there will be a talk event, a mini samba show, as well as a photo contest based on past events, so there will be plenty to enjoy throughout the festival.

This year’s event will be held on September 17 and 18 at the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, so why not wear some colorful clothes and come experience the lively samba atmosphere?