Kagurazaka Festival 2024: Held from July 24 to July 27 The dates for the 2024 Kagurazaka Festival have been decided. This year, the festival will take place from July 24th (Wednesday) to July 27th (Saturday). As the 50th anniversary edition, it is expected to be a grand celebration. The Kagurazaka Festival is structured into two parts: the "Hozuki (Chinese lantern plant) Market" and the "Awa Dance Festival." Further details about the Kagurazaka Festival will be provided around mid-May. The "Hozuki Market" will be held on July 24th and 25th, while the "Awa Dance Festival" is scheduled for July 26th and 27th. As in previous years, the venue for the "Hozuki Market" will likely be centered around Bishamonten, and the "Awa Dance Festival" will take place along Kagurazaka Street and in front of the Akagi Shrine. "Horoku-kyu" from the Edo Period At the "Hozuki Market," hozuki plants (approximately ¥2,000 each) will be sold, and stalls from nearby shopping districts will also be set up along Kagurazaka Street. In 2023, 32 stalls participated. Also scheduled for July 25th, coinciding with the "Hozuki Market," is the "Houroku-kyu" ritual at Bishamonten, a Nichiren Buddhist ceremony that takes place during the summer Doyou period. This ritual, which dates back to the Edo period, involves placing a houroku (a shallow, unglazed earthen pot) on the head and setting moxa on fire atop it to pray for relief from headaches, summer fatigue, and to prevent summer ailments. Last year's fee for participating in the "Houroku-kyu" was ¥3,000. Kagurazaka Festival Draws Approximately 50,000 Visitors The Kagurazaka Festival typically attracts 50,000 visitors each year, making it a grand summer festival. Located in the heart of Tokyo, Kagurazaka is easily accessible and ideal for international tourists to experience and enjoy a Japanese summer festival. Many Japanese attendees wear yukata, adding to the festive atmosphere. We encourage you to visit Kagurazaka and experience the festival for yourself. Access to Kagurazaka Tokyo Metro Tozai Line: Kagurazaka Station or Iidabashi Station Tokyo Metro Namboku Line: Iidabashi Station Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line: Iidabashi Station Toei Subway Oedo Line: Ushigome-Kagurazaka Station or Iidabashi Station JR Sobu Line: Iidabashi Station
