10,000 dancers swarm the shopping street, 1 million spectators erupt for three hours

About this spot

Started in 1957, this beloved summer tradition has grown to rival even the home festival in Tokushima. For 2026 (the 67th edition), performances run August 29–30 from 5 to 8 p.m. Centered on Koenji Station, the shopping streets and main avenues transform into stages where about 10,000 dancers move through in succession, shouting 'Yatto Saa, Yatto Yatto!' to the two-beat rhythm of gongs and drums that resonates through your body. Watch the powerful hip-low stances of the men's dance, the flowing grace of the women in fan-wielding yukata with folded fans, and the earnest energy of dancing children. Each troupe's unique character never grows old, no matter how long you watch. The echo of drums bouncing off the narrow streets between buildings is quintessentially Koenji. Immerse yourself in three hours of heat as summer ends.

Season & hours

Tips

Major traffic restrictions will be in place around the station, and the streets along performance venues will be extremely crowded. To secure a good viewing spot, arrive at the roadside by 4 p.m. Move during the breaks between dance groups, following staff directions. Families with strollers will find the back rows or wider intersections safer than the front. The trains leaving right after 8 p.m. will be packed—linger and savor the afterglow, then leave when the rush subsides. Check the official website for weather-related cancellations.

Best time to visit

From 5 p.m. onward. After 6:30 p.m., as the sun sets and the paper lanterns light up, the festival's energy peaks.

Access & map

〒166-0003 東京都杉並区高円寺南4丁目 高円寺駅周辺