Enjoying Japan’s Summer Festivals
August: The Peak of Festival Season in Japan
August is the month when the most festivals are held throughout Japan. Several factors contribute to this, such as the concentration of traditional events related to Obon and the fact that schools are on summer vacation. For this reason, August is often called “the festival month.”
From traditional celebrations rooted in local shrines to large-scale events organized by shopping streets and local businesses, Japanese festivals come in many forms and sizes. What they all have in common is a festive atmosphere where people gather to enjoy the height of summer.
With energetic outdoor settings and deep cultural ties to the local community, summer festivals offer a one-of-a-kind way to experience Japanese culture firsthand.
The Joy of Japanese Festival Street Food
One of the most exciting parts of any summer festival is the yatai, or street food stalls. For many Japanese people, the savory scent of sizzling sauce on a hot iron griddle instantly brings to mind the lively scenes of a summer festival.
Takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba (fried noodles), and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) are beloved staples of festival food. You’ll also find sweet treats like chocolate-dipped bananas, candied apples, and Japanese-style crepes—which are often filled with whipped cream and fresh fruit and rolled up for easy eating.
During the summer holidays, children clutch their pocket money and wander from stall to stall with friends, carefully choosing what to buy. Adults, too, enjoy grabbing a cold beer and savoring the street food in the festive open-air atmosphere.
Please note: alcohol may be prohibited at certain venues, so be sure to check local rules in advance.
Yukata: A Comfortable and Stylish Way to Dress for Festivals
You don’t need special clothing to attend a summer festival, but many people choose to wear a yukata to fully enjoy the seasonal atmosphere. A yukata is a type of casual summer kimono, made from lightweight fabric and loved for its comfort and breathability.
In addition to traditional patterns, modern designs and easy-to-wear versions of yukata have become more popular in recent years, making it accessible even for first-time wearers. Many tourist destinations in Japan also offer yukata rental services, which are especially popular among international visitors looking to enjoy a cultural experience.
Kōshū Inden-Gassai Bukuro: A Practical Bag That Complements Any Outfit
One thing to note—yukata do not have pockets. This can make it inconvenient to carry valuables when heading out to a festival in traditional attire. That’s where the Kōshū Inden Gassai-Bukuro, or drawstring bag, comes in handy.
Kōshū Inden is a traditional Japanese leathercraft made by decorating deerskin with lacquered patterns. The technique originated from armor-making by samurai and many of the patterns are believed to offer protection or bring good fortune.
Today, Inden is used to craft a variety of everyday items such as wallets, pouches, and bags. The term “gassai” means “everything altogether,” and the gassai bukuro is a simple, functional bag perfect for holding your phone, wallet, and other essentials while out and about.
Since the bag is made without any stiff inner structure, the natural softness of the deerskin becomes more noticeable the more you use it. Its understated design pairs well with both traditional yukata and modern Western-style clothing.
In fact, some Ikedaya staff use it during their lunch breaks when heading out with just their phone and wallet—proof that it’s as practical as it is beautiful.
Ikedaya’s selection of Inden gassai bukuro is available at our Ginza, Shizuoka, and Hamamatsu stores. Add a touch of timeless Japanese craftsmanship to your summer festival look or casual outfit—you’ll appreciate both its function and its style.
A Perfect Time to Experience Japan’s Summer Spirit
If you happen to be in Ginza, Tokyo on August 2, consider wearing a yukata and exploring the city during "Yukata de Gin-bura 2025", a seasonal event that welcomes visitors in traditional summer attire.
Those wearing yukata can enjoy small benefits such as discounts at local shops, department stores, and cafés in the Ginza area. Some streets may also feature food stalls, allowing you to enjoy a relaxed festival-like atmosphere in the heart of Tokyo.
For carrying your essentials, a traditional Inden Gassai-Bukuro pairs well with yukata and offers a simple, functional way to complete your look.
From August 13 to 16, Japan observes Obon, a period when people honor the spirits of their ancestors. During this time, many towns and cities across the country hold local festivals, folk dances (Bon Odori), and other community events.
It is a good opportunity to experience aspects of Japanese seasonal culture and participate in regional traditions that are still practiced today. If you are in Japan during this period, checking for nearby festivals may lead you to a memorable local experience—whether it’s a quiet lantern ceremony or a lively summer celebration.
