Sanja Matsuri

Sanja Matsuri (三社祭), one of Tokyo’s most dynamic and colorful festivals, takes over the Asakusa district every May, filling the streets with excitement and energy. Held at the historic Asakusa Shrine, this three-day celebration honors the founding of Sensoji Temple, one of Tokyo’s oldest and most revered temples. The festival is marked by vibrant processions featuring over 100 mikoshi (portable shrines), which are carried through the bustling streets by passionate participants. The sight of these mikoshi being paraded through Asakusa’s lively streets creates a breathtaking display of devotion and festivity, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heart of Tokyo.

The festival’s centerpiece is the grand parade of Asakusa’s three sacred mikoshi, each one representing a different deity. These sacred shrines are carried by locals in a show of immense pride and respect for their traditions. The air is filled with the beat of rhythmic drumming, the colorful display of traditional costumes, and the joy of both participants and spectators. Sanja Matsuri is not just a religious event, but a vibrant celebration of Tokyo’s culture and history, offering a rare opportunity to experience centuries-old traditions in one of the city's most iconic neighborhoods.