As the summer heat reaches its peak in August, Tokyo has a way of keeping things cool and fun – with the Kanda Myojin Noryo Matsuri, an exuberant summer festival that takes over the city from August 11 to 13, 2023.
What To Expect
Introduced in 2016, the Kanda Myojin Noryo Matsuri quickly became an essential Tokyo tradition, marking the calendar as a can’t-miss event with its combination of traditional Obon dancing, tantalizing food stalls, and an assortment of anime-themed entertainment.
Located in Tokyo’s Chiyoda ward, the festival takes place at the Kanda Myojin Shrine and spans three days, where you can experience everything from classic summer festival delights to modern pop culture celebrations.
The Matsuri is conveniently accessible, with a number of Tokyo’s primary train stations, including Ochanomizu Station and Akihabara Station, just a short walk away.
Cool Down with the Noryo Bon Dance
One of the festival’s main attractions is the Noryo Bon Dance, a traditional Japanese dance performed during the Obon Festival. The dancing schedule starts with an anime song (Anison) Bon Dance on August 11 from 5 pm to 9 pm, followed by the Chiyoda Ward Citizens Dance Federation Bon Dance on August 12, and concluding with the Hamacho Ondo Preservation Society Bon Dance on August 13, both from 6 pm to 9 pm.
Anison Bon Dance: Dance to the Tunes of Your Favorite Anime
The Anison Bon Dance, happening on August 11 from 5 pm to 9 pm, presents a unique opportunity for attendees to dance to their favorite anime tunes. The first half, from 5:30 pm to 7 pm, will repeat each song twice, allowing dancers to practice their moves while guided by professional dancers. Don’t be shy if you’re new to this; the event is designed to be beginner-friendly.
The song list features popular tracks like the Doraemon Ondo, Sunshine Pikkapika Ondo, and Idol, among others. There will also be short breaks and lectures on how to perform the Kanda Myojin Ondo, ensuring everyone can partake in the fun.
Gourmet Beer & Sake Festival
Running from August 10 to August 13, the festival will host a Gourmet Beer & Sake Festival. This will be a chance for attendees to sample some of the best and most popular culinary delights from various food festivals around Japan. Prices for the food items will mainly range from 500 to 600 yen, making this an affordable culinary adventure.
So, whether you’re a long-time resident or a curious visitor, don’t miss the chance to experience one of Tokyo’s most vibrant summer traditions, the Kanda Myojin Noryo Matsuri. It’s a time to appreciate the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future in one of the world’s most exciting cities.
More: Exquisite Gourmet Beer & Sake Festival 2023 At Kanda Myojin Noryo Festival (August 10-13th)
Event Details
- Name: Kanda Myojin Noryo Matsuri
- Dates: August 11, 2023 (Friday & Holiday) to August 13, 2023 (Sunday)
- Time: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Note that on August 10th (Thursday), only the gourmet event will be held from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Location: Kanda Myojin Shrine Grounds
- Address: 2-16-2 Soto-Kanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
- Admission: Free
- Note: The Bon Dance may be canceled in case of rain
Access & Nearest Stations
- JR Ochanomizu Station: 5-minute walk
- JR Akihabara Station: 7-minute walk
- Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line – Ochanomizu Station: 5-minute walk
- Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line – Shin-Ochanomizu Station: 5-minute walk
- Tokyo Metro Ginza Line – Suehirocho Station: 5-minute walk
- Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line – Akihabara Station: 7-minute walk
Where To Stay In Tokyo
Tokyo visitor levels are currently at an all-time high so make sure to book your hotels early. Tip most hotels booked with booking.com have free cancelation so book as soon as you know your date and you can always cancel if you change your mind.
