Summer Festivals in Japan
Japan’s Best Summer Festivals
Some of Japan’s best festivals are also the most difficult to reach. That’s part of the appeal. But when the journey involves two trains, a highway bus, and a walk from a station with no English signage, staying connected with a dependable Japan eSIM like Nomad eSIM becomes essential. A reliable eSIM lets you check last-minute transport updates, share your location, or message your guesthouse if you’re running late.
Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Tokyo): One of the oldest fireworks shows in the country, it is held on the last Saturday of July. Over a million people gather along the Sumida River. Reserve your hotel well in advance. (The last Saturday of July)
Aomori Nebuta Matsuri (Aomori Prefecture): Massive illuminated floats parade through the streets. Dancers, drums, and chanting fill the city. (Early August)
Tokushima Awa Odori (Tokushima Prefecture): One of Japan’s most iconic dance festivals. Locals and visitors take to the streets for bon dancing. (August 12-15)
Hirado Summer Festival (Nagasaki Prefecture): Takes place at Hirado’s central harbour on the first Saturday in August. Stage performances, local food stalls and the main draw—fireworks over the water with Hirado Castle in view. (First Saturday of August)
Akita Kanto Matsuri (Akita Prefecture): Watch performers balance enormous lantern-topped bamboo poles. Unique to the Tohoku region. (August 3-6)
Gujo Odori (Gifu Prefecture): A hidden gem known for all-night dancing. Gujo is a scenic mountain town with limited public transport, especially late at night. Buses run infrequently or fill up quickly, so having reliable mobile data helps with checking schedules, alternate routes or contacting your hotel if plans change. (Mid-July to early September)
How to Travel Smart for Japan’s Summer Festivals With Nomad eSIM
Planning on visiting some of Japan's summer festivals? Here are some of our favorites and how Nomad eSim can make it hassle-free.
Japan’s summer festival season draws massive crowds for good reason. Streets come alive with dancers, fireworks light up the skies, and quiet towns transform into hubs of celebration. From the energy of Aomori’s Nebuta Matsuri to the traditional rhythm of Tokushima’s awa odori (a traditional summer dance), it’s an experience worth planning for.
But it can be a logistical nightmare, especially if you’re relying on unreliable hotel Wi-Fi or juggling multiple SIM cards. But with Nomad eSIM, you can expect smooth travels this summer.
Pro tip: Not sure how much data you’ll need for your trip? Use Nomad’s Data Calculator to choose the right plan for Japan’s summer festival season.
Here’s how to make the most of Japan’s summer festivals without getting lost or disconnected.