The 67th Asagaya Tanabata Festival is back after 4 yours and is set to light up the streets of Suginami around Asagaya Station, Tokyo, from August 4th to 8th, 2023.

This event, held in the height of summer, has been an ongoing tradition since 1954, created with the intent to attract people to the shopping streets despite the heat.

Kicking Off At Asagaya Pearl Center

Asagaya Tanabata Matsuri Photo Credit Asagaya Or
Asagaya Tanabata Matsuri Photo Credit: asagaya.or.jp

The main venue for the Asagaya Tanabata Festival is the Asagaya Pearl Center shopping street, complete with an arcade. The highlight of the festival that sets it apart from other Tanabata festivals is the gigantic handmade ‘haribote’ (paper-mache figures).

The people of the shopping street create these ‘haribote’ every year, incorporating current trends and unique ideas. Alongside bamboo decorations, ball ornaments, and streamers, these creations add color and flair to the streets.

Shopping and Entertainment Galore

Asagaya Tanabata Matsuri Photo Credit Asagaya Or
Asagaya Tanabata Matsuri Photo Credit: asagaya.or.jp

During the Asagaya Tanabata Festival, many shops in the shopping street set up pop-up stores in front of their premises. Various foods and drinks are sold, and fun activities such as goldfish scooping are also available.

It’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy some local shopping while indulging in traditional festival games and delicacies.

Event Details

Asagaya Tanabata Matsuri
Asagaya Tanabata Matsuri
  • Name: 67th Asagaya Tanabata Festival
  • Dates: August 4th (Fri) – August 8th (Tue), 2023
  • Venue: Asagaya Pearl Center [Map: Google Map]
  • Address: Asagaya Minami, Suginami-ku, Tokyo
  • Closest Station: Asagaya Station on the JR Chuo Line
  • Website: asagaya.or.jp

The Sum Up

One of the highlights of August, The Asagaya Tanabata Festival 2023 promises to be a visual feast of creativity and community spirit. Enjoy the summer vibes, indulge in local food and drinks, and get amazed by the beautiful handcrafted ‘haribote’.

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